It's good to hear from everyone. I've actually tried the "cutting down" thing for a year now. A big step for me this week was realizing it's just not working. Even in a restaurant or pub where it's so expensive, sometimes you just bring enough for a couple drinks, but then, as usual, I want more and either borrow money from a friend, or use the credit card.
The latest thing I was going to try, was to accept that I can't stop at one, but only allow myself to party/get drunk once a week. But twice this year it has lead to me dealing with the hangover by going out and buying more, and continuing to drink for 4 nights in a row.
I have finished three days now without drinking. Physically, it was difficult. This is the main reason I want to quit. I find this new withdrawal thing I've had in the last couple years is awful. I'm anxious, irritable, and have no patience with people. This is nothing like me. Everyone describes me as a very easy going, happy person to be around. I'm not sure, maybe this happens to everyone once they hit 40. Maybe your nervous system says "enough is enough"! The anxiety that drinking is now causing is even worse than an average hangover to me. I thought I was losing my mind to be honest until I finally clued in and started to research the affects of heavy drinking.
Today was another big step in that I told two of my good friends that I was very determined to quit for good. A friend who has known me for 20 years was genuinely surprised that I have a problem. "I knew you liked to drink, but I just thought it was all in fun?!" When he found out I drink alone quite a few nights, he finally believed me. I think he's a bit upset (for me) and shocked, so I hope we can talk more. The other good friend wasn't too surprised, as we travelled together alot. He's very excited for me though, and keeps reminding me that no one is perfect, and not to be so hard on myself. I never really got TOO drunk while travelling - too much to see and do, but I did apologize for all the hangovers I had in those travels. I said imagine if I can get up early now and make breakfast!
The only time we ever had arguments was when I drank too much also, which is yet another good reason to quit.
VINCENZA - yes, you are right, I think for the first 7-8 days, I shall avoid the pubs and after work get togethers. This is when my system is really craving more. When I get to 8 days, and hopefully am feeling good and healthy again, I MUST remind myself over and over how good it feels. In the past I told myself, "well, now you're fine - it's been 8 days, go out for drinks". Having spriralled down twice this year with that attitude, I have to stop that line of thinking. Tonight, someone was trying to suggest drinks after work, and I said, "how about next week?" Actually, they always want the food, it's me who wants the wine! :-) So I can't blame the work group. This web-site suggests formulating a plan before the situation arrises, and that's what I did, and will continue to do!
Krissy and Mom 1968 and purpose. Continue to communicate, I really think it helps. I also think it's important to come up with more hobbies, and things to keep us busy. Boredom is apparently one of the top reasons that women drink too much (alone especially). Sorry this was so long. I'm actually really tired, so I hope it made some sense.
Good night and all the best with the rest of the weekend!
