Recognise the Long-Term Journey
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Acknowledge that staying sober is a continuous process, and the challenges evolve over time.
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Understand that writing and reflecting on your journey can be a powerful tool for maintaining sobriety.
Comparison of Good Days
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Remind yourself that even bad days in sobriety are significantly better than the darkest days when using substances.
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Emphasise the positive changes in your life and well-being since choosing to be sober.
Feelings of Self-Loathing
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Understand that feelings of self-loathing after a setback can be used as motivation.
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Channel these emotions positively, reminding yourself of the taste of sobriety and the desire to feel 100 percent you every day.
End of the Honeymoon Period
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Prepare for the end of the initial euphoria that comes with achieving sobriety.
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Anticipate the return to normality and the need for sustained effort to combat potential relapses.
Persistence and Learning from Mistakes
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Appreciate that sobriety is a massive behavioural change, and persistence is key.
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Learn from mistakes, analyse what led to a setback, and adjust your approach accordingly.
Pride in Sobriety
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Cultivate a sense of pride for every day of sobriety, regardless of setbacks.
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Embrace the superhero within, recognising the superhuman feat of choosing sobriety.
Normalizing Thoughts About Substances
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Accept that thinking about substances, even in sobriety, is normal.
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Reaffirm your commitment to sobriety and use slip-ups as opportunities to reinforce the decision to quit.
No Shame in Sobriety
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Internalise the idea that there is no shame in being sober; it brings joy, pride, and freedom.
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Embrace the words of Clare Pooley, celebrating the positive aspects of sobriety and the sense of accomplishment it brings.
Watch the video on making your decision
This decision will be one of, if not the biggest, of your life. You need to make it for yourself, and you need to be 100 percent sure it’s what you want. If not, you will fail.