Progress report: 7 weeks alcohol-free

So it has been exactly 7 weeks since I decided to stop drinking alcohol..

Living my best tropical life !

I had been toying with the idea of giving up alcohol for a long time but I never felt like I was ‘ready’ to commit. Every week I could not wait until that Friday evening glass (or 5) of wine to ring in the weekend — my two days off.

I really associated drinking with having fun and unwinding. Even after I hit 26 and the price I paid for unwinding was two days lying horizontally on the sofa! Also, after only relocating to Cayman in November I didn’t want any potential friends to think I was ‘dry’ (I’ve heard the saying “I don't trust people who don’t drink” too many times throughout the years!).

Some of the main things I have noticed in the past 7 weeks:

1. I am socialising and seeing friends EVEN MORE — no hangover means more time, less fatigue, and less bailing on plans in general.
2. If your friends are really your friends, you shouldn't need alcohol to hang out. If you aren’t comfortable being your own sober self around the people you call friends then I would shift them to the “good time friend” category.
3. After week 3 my energy levels were through the roof. I think by week three my body was fully detoxed and since then my energy levels are the best they have been in years.
4. My love handles are shrinking and my skin has improved — its a shame, but unfortunately girls we hold alcohol weight around the hips and tummy and how about all those breakouts the next day.
5. I no longer “start again” every Monday. Anyone else guilty of this? I used to be good with my diet and exercise Monday — Thursday and then fall off the bandwagon every Friday — Sunday.
6. I am more productive than ever before — who knew how many things you can achieve in 7 days!
7. My dedication to and determination has improved — I am finally doing things I have always just thought about doing.
8. I am saving more money — drinking is expensive!
9. I have found other ways to unwind and relax.
10. Overall I am feeling happier and healthier.

Surprisingly for me, I have not missed alcohol at all so I am confident this lifestyle change was the right decision for me and sustainable long term.

Everyone is different but if you are considering a dry spell I hope this will encourage you to take the plunge!

Thanks for reading,

Christine x

You Glow Girl!