Becoming alcohol-free was one of the hardest things I have ever done. In the beginning, figuring out how to live alcohol-free was also extremely difficult. This is true for most of my clients and the people I meet who have undertaken this journey. So, why do we keep going? How do we know it’s going to be worth it in the end? What is at the ‘heart’ of sober living?
I experienced something recently that I think, at least for me, answers this question. I attended an event with 100+ women (and 2 men) where we experienced the joy of celebrating life as alcohol-free humans. Friendship, celebration, laughter, and learning have been a big part of my sober journey. Another very important part for me has been growing personally – learning to sit with my emotions, learning to express my needs, learning to really listen to other people and see beyond the veil.
The Sober In The City event in Tampa, Florida reminded me, in the best possible way, how important it is to be seen and heard and understood in this AF world. The things that matter to all humans also matter to us. We don’t stop needing fun, or dance parties or new friends just because we don’t drink alcohol!
This is what AF women want and deserve!
- Connection
- Fun
- Laughter
- Learning
- A Support System
- Practice socializing AF
- Understanding
- Inspiration
This is the fourth event I have attended, and my hat is off to the founders, Peggi Cooney and Susie Streelman, because the events just keep getting better and better! I am also extremely grateful to these ladies for following their own ‘sober hearts’ and creating something that didn’t exist before. When I stopped drinking over 8 years ago, there were no events like this. Now, because of these pioneers, the newly sober or sober curious can see that there is a vibrant and rich social life out there that doesn’t require alcohol.
I am also grateful for the friendships I have made because of these events. If you have followed my story you will know that I have struggled with friendships – making new friends, feeling included and wondering if I truly belonged anywhere. Now, I have friends from across the country that I see and connect with. I have two new business partnerships that are a direct result of being connected with Sober In The City – what a rich opportunity!
On the podcast I share more of what the heart of sober living is for me and ways that you can support this movement (living and loving our AF life!) as we grow forward.
I hope you will feel inspired to keep reaching new heights as you experience more alcohol-free time. One thing that I have noticed, and I have also heard from so many of you, is that life keeps getting better and better. Why is that? I think it is because, for perhaps the first time, we are experiencing life without judging ourselves and others, instead we are exploring how to be more open, more compassionate and more authentic.
What is at the ‘heart of sober living’ for you?
Want to join the next event in Seattle in September? Find out more here
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