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It’s honestly hard to believe that I’ve made it to 100 days sober. When I first decided to stop drinking, I was just hoping to feel a little more in control and maybe improve my mental health. But what I didn’t expect was how much my life would shift in ways I couldn’t have imagined. It’s been full of surprises—little joys and big realizations I never saw coming. Looking back, it’s clear that quitting alcohol has led me to a place of growth and self-discovery. So, I want to share 10 things that have totally changed since I stopped drinking, each one proving that sobriety has its own kind of magic.
1. My Lips Stopped Being Chapped
This one is a little random and weird but just hear me out ... one of the first changes I noticed was how my lips became healthier. For years, I struggled with chapped, dry lips, often relying on lip balm to keep them from cracking. I never connected this issue to my drinking, but as soon as I stopped, I realized that alcohol was dehydrating my body in ways I hadn’t fully understood. With hydration came smoother, healthier skin. This small but significant change reminded me of the importance of taking care of my body and appreciating the little things that contribute to my overall well-being.
2. I Stopped Catching Every Daycare Sickness
As a parent, I know all too well how quickly children can bring home germs from daycare. Prior to quitting alcohol, I was often the first to catch whatever illness was making the rounds. It seemed like I was perpetually fighting off colds and flu-like symptoms. However, after going sober, I noticed a significant shift. I stopped catching these illnesses as frequently. I believe this newfound resilience is due to a combination of better sleep, improved hydration, and a strengthened immune system. Not only did this keep me healthier, but it also allowed me to be more present for my son, leading to more enjoyable moments together.
3. I Stopped Freaking Out When People Didn’t Text Me Back
In the past, a delayed text response would send me spiraling into a frenzy of self-doubt and anxiety. I would wonder if I had said something wrong or if people were intentionally ignoring me. This heightened sensitivity was exhausting and deeply rooted in my insecurities, often exacerbated by alcohol’s effects on my mood. Since becoming sober, I’ve gained a sense of peace and confidence that has transformed my outlook. Now, I understand that everyone has their own lives and responsibilities. I no longer take delays personally, allowing me to maintain healthier relationships without the emotional rollercoaster.
4. My Anxiety About Driving Disappeared
Driving used to be a source of intense anxiety for me, especially during high-traffic situations or long distances. I often dreaded getting behind the wheel, as my mind would race with worst-case scenarios. After stopping drinking, I found that many of the anxieties that plagued me began to fade. I became more focused and calm, allowing me to drive without the paralyzing fear that once held me back. This newfound confidence has not only made commuting more enjoyable but has also opened up opportunities for adventures and spontaneous trips with my family.
5. I Stopped Wishing the Days Away
Before I quit drinking, I often felt like I was just surviving each day. The anxiety and guilt that accompanied my drinking left me in a fog, wishing for the days to pass quickly. Now, however, I find myself truly embracing each moment. I’ve shifted my focus from merely getting through the day to making it count. I set goals and work towards my future, whether that means engaging in hobbies, spending quality time with loved ones, or pursuing personal development. This shift in perspective has made life infinitely more rewarding.
6. I Realized How Deeply Sad I Was Living Before
Looking back, it’s clear to me that I was living in a state of constant survival. The anxiety fueled by alcohol created a cycle where I was just trying to avoid panic attacks and discomfort. It was an extremely sad way to live, devoid of joy and fulfillment. Sobriety has given me clarity to reflect on how deeply sad and unfulfilled I felt. Now, I am filled with gratitude for the journey I’ve undertaken. Understanding this has allowed me to appreciate the happiness I now experience daily.
7. My Eyes Are No Longer Blurry
For years, I woke up with blurry vision, often attributing it to the effects of sleep or just a natural part of waking up. After quitting alcohol, I quickly realized that this wasn’t normal. My vision cleared up significantly, and I began to see the world with a new vibrancy. The clarity of my sight has paralleled the clarity in my mind, helping me feel more engaged and connected to my surroundings. It’s incredible how removing alcohol from my life improved my physical state in ways I never expected.
8. I Stopped Binge-Watching TV and Movies
In my previous life as a drinker, binge-watching was my go-to escape from the chaos in my mind. I would lose entire weekends glued to the screen, avoiding reality and responsibilities. Since becoming sober, I’ve discovered a new appreciation for my time. I find myself less inclined to turn to television as an escape and more interested in engaging with the world around me. Instead of mindlessly watching, I seek out activities that challenge me, inspire me, and enrich my life.
9. I Started Enjoying Housework
Believe it or not, housework has become a source of joy for me. Before quitting alcohol, I dreaded chores and would often procrastinate until the mess became overwhelming. However, now I approach housework with a sense of pride and accomplishment. Cleaning, organizing, and maintaining my home feels like an act of self-care. It’s a way for me to create a peaceful environment for myself and my family. Plus, it gives me a sense of control over my surroundings that I deeply value.
10. I Started Enjoying Music Again
One of the most surprising changes after stopping drinking was rediscovering my love for music. For years, certain songs were tied to memories of poor decisions and regret, often reminding me of nights I didn’t remember or moments clouded by alcohol. But when I got sober, music became pure again. I started truly listening, feeling the lyrics and melodies in a way I hadn’t before. Music that once felt distant or numbing now became a source of emotional release and connection. Whether it’s a song that lifts me up during a workout or a soothing ballad that resonates with my mood, I began to embrace the beauty and power of music, not as an escape, but as a way to feel and heal again.
Reflecting on the last 100 days, it’s clear that stopping drinking alcohol has not only improved my physical health but has also transformed my mental and emotional well-being. Each of these surprising changes has contributed to a richer, more fulfilling life. I no longer simply exist; I thrive.
If you’re contemplating a journey towards sobriety, know that it can lead to profound transformations that you may not even anticipate. Embrace the possibility of change, and who knows what surprises await you on your own journey? Here’s to the next 100 days and beyond—filled with clarity, joy, and the pursuit of a vibrant life!
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