Why I Stopped Drinking: The Most POWERFUL Quote Ever

[@JakJim1]

I thank God that he gave me the thoughts to stop and the strength to carry on . I am not religious but believe in the power , love and spirit of God .

[@ffudon]

I drank a gallon of ale and half a litre of cheap whisky every day for well over a decade. On a random day, 14 months and 2 weeks ago, for no particular reason, I decided it was time to stop drinking alcohol. I didn't go to AA or have any help, I just stopped, and I will never drink alcohol again ✊

[@carolroy52]

Powerful and heartfelt words. Everyone is addicted to something. We all have to find our way through the maze of life, helping others as we go along! And in a lot of instances we succeed. Keep searching and rest on the camps while walking up the mountain 👏

[@mickhorsley3169]

I was Teatotal for most of my 11 years in the RAF but it was frowned on. The drinking culture was strong and I'd continually have to push back against people egging me on to drink.

[@TonyButterworthPhoto]

Same here Mick. I was in during the early eighties, didn’t drink or smoke and was sneered at. Officers Mess social life revolved around the bar and so-called ‘hell-raising’.

[@mothmagic1]

Good for you mate, I'm ex army so I can well understand where you're coming from.

[@JamieWalker-pc6nd]

@@mothmagic1ye I didn’t drink UNTIL I joined cos I knew it was making me “not trusted” ironically cos a lotta loose lips….

[@scarletiv5683]

Hey Tim, have you ever considered writing a book? You're very passionate about things that affect lots of people in their everyday lives. I think you are doing good things with your channel. Helping people in various ways through talking about your own struggles and experiences. I quit smoking twelve years ago. Best thing I ever did. Took me about three years to actually do it, but the success feels that much better when you really have to work at something and it pays off. Keep the faith 👍

[@Mumbo_Jumbo_Kiwi.1]

Hi poor little male Tim, you've helped a lot of us cut down. Instead of 6-10 cans a night I have cut down to no longer buying for night beers but now I walk to the shop for one can only late mornings 'when I can fit it in.' I enjoy it more now. I had to knock the old habit & thank you so much.

[@cumulus10]

AA is a support network for those that haven’t got many other things that can help. Hearing how others that have recovered is a helpful way to try things out to see if that works. It’s a programme for a better way of living, being honest, kind, caring and compassionate and setting the past right for the wrongs that might have been done. In AA it’s widely accepted that there is no monopoly on recovery from alcoholism. What works for one person might not work for another and to find a way that does, and that might be any other support network or group.

[@hendongooner7383]

Whenever I feel down - I always remember that I am the product of star stuff....so many stars went supernova to produce all the materials that make up our bodies...We are pretty amazing and we need to look after our bodies..

[@J00dy11]

Hi Tim, I've really been enjoying your 'self-help' videos of late, especially those where you've talked about your experience with alcohol. Three years ago, I lost my mother to alcoholism, I was only 15 at the time, her primary carer and had been living in a household with just me and her for the past 5 years. Naturally the loss had a profound effect on me that I couldn’t shake until recently. Because of your advice amongst other things, I’m now in the best shape physically and mentally since them as well as trying to go back and retry things I did during this period like retake some of my gcses etc. Hearing some of your experiences with drinking has given me more of an insight into what my mother was going through at the time and has given me a little bit more closure. I’m glad to hear you're on the up and I hope things keep getting better!

[@oliverbates1843]

I really hope things keep getting better for you @JudeKirby8641, what you're achieving at the minute is absolutely incredible! Keep going!

[@bassjunk3]

keep going Jude... I like the phrase 'own it' so 'own it' Jude

[@cr3752]

Well done for sticking by your mum that's amazing

[@williammoreno2378]

My ex roommate/house sitter was a heavy drinker and drug addict. AA saved his life. He also was dyslexic and had difficulties in school but passed his courses thru sheer determination. Last I heard, he was very, very successful in real estate in the Puget Sound region of Washington State. Very nice, humble man.

[@njcr4688]

Well I'm failing miserably. Smashing the cider. Working harder than I ever have and never been so skint, stressed, fed up. Packed in my training. Used to do a short workout when I woke up at 5am for work. And a proper session in evening. Now I do nothing. Put so much weight on. Sometimes shit rocks your world and the way out is at the end of the giant maze. Not found the way out yet. So glad you've nailed it though. Excellent work sir

[@FastJetPerformance]

Come back to the school.

[@njcr4688]

@@FastJetPerformance signed back up to basic👍

[@njcr4688]

​@@FastJetPerformance Well.....I re watched this video, sober!!!!! just now. 1 week without a drop of alcohol. I feel shit to be honest mentally as the anxiety of not drinking kicked in. But I have my son and got him a new MTB for his birthday. So really, really happy to be out on the bikes again. Even if it's just an hour in the nearest car park practicing wheelies. I go everywhere on the back wheel. Love it. Sleeping so much better. Apart from old man's bladder I don't wake up at all until the alarm. Alcohol used to have me awake at 2am and not get back to sleep. Sorry for the essay. Along way to go but the path is chosen. Thankyou once again for bailing me out mentally. Much appreciated. And one last thing.........I have a size 11 boot lined up square and true for the devils bollocks should he rear his ugly head again. Catch you in the virtual skies soon I hope👍

[@FastJetPerformance]

@@njcr4688 Catch you in the skies! Also, ask me about the guy that's just written to me about unrecoverable alcoholic liver disease that he just woke up one morning with, he's dying and fast - no warning. You are doing the right thing for your boy, life for men isn't about us, it's about other people - that's your role now, to be an example to your son - great work, see you in the virtual skies.

[@gmanderson2009]

I spent 17 years in the RAF, in the ranks, most of that time I would have been a functioning drunk. The culture in the 70s/80s meant that alcohol was available everywhere and all times of the day, particularly in RAFG and NI. I stopped in 1989 after a 2 week bender in the Sgts Mess over Christmas/ New Year, I failed on the first night, but from the 5th of January to date have never touched alcohol since. I sought no medical advice or help from AA. I was never promoted again.

[@kurtbarker3303]

How long into your service were you in 1989?

[@dermotrooney9584]

Well done, Man.

[@gmanderson2009]

@@kurtbarker3303 Actually served 24 years, stopped drinking after 17, did not proof read before publishing.

[@simonfaulkner5596]

Well done G but the poignant bit is "I was never promoted again". The RAF had a culture where you got promoted in the bar and it's kinda sad.

[@JamieWalker-pc6nd]

@@gmanderson2009respect to you sir. You’re a bettter man Than I

[@fireflyrobert]

This video held my attention for the whole 15 minutes. Tim, whilst I am older than you, we have so much in common. I'm a retired pilot/instructor (mainly civil but did 3 years as a civilian employed military flying instructor). I quit alcohol over ten years ago and can honestly say I don't miss it. I came into commercial aviation in the early 1970s flying long haul when the drinking culture was rife. One of the biggest challenges is peer pressure when it come to alcohol. You're also correct about us humans being designed for movement. I was the original couch potato in my 20s/30s then decided to lose 3 stone and get into shape as I suddenly realised that if I didn't get more proactive about health and fitness I was going to suffer in later life. I'm an incipient 73 year old and will be running a local half marathon this September. I also identify with you being of an addictive nature too but this can be used to advantage. I love that Wes Weston quote and as a believer it is so true. Keep up the good work my friend - you are on the right path!

[@video3ish]

Good on you mate. I stopped at 23 cold Turkey & im 60 now. Gym twice a week & still run. Men in their mid 50’s around me have all sorts of health issues, blood pressure & terrible skin. It is a poison literally & it’s not meant to be ingested. The hardest part is finding a life partner whom isn’t a big drinker as so many others do it.

[@unholyaudiochannel]

Gonna write a more detailed response later, but just want to Acknowledge I’ve watched this video. Awesome content Tim, well done. 1 year and 9 months sober here. Sobriety is the way for men.

[@hendongooner7383]

Good for you Tim. I stopped years ago...never been a fan of alcohol. And now at my late middle age I just can't do it...I hate feeling awful the next day or so. I prefer to eat well and work out in the gym and enjoy outdoor activities and being fit.. Also - I don't want to weaken my body and be more susceptible to illness.. I don't want to have to go to the NHS and rely on medicine/big pharma

[@Bad_Gnasher]

Love Wes Watson, one of the main reasons I stopped drinking.

[@MattJones675GR9]

Eric Clapton states in his autobiography that the death of his son could of easily triggered him to fall off the wagon but he found the strength to remain sober.

[@Kuljanjua]

The quote that you said from Wes Watson makes perfect sense, the overthinking part is spot on . people think that we enjoy drink rather than understand its to slow down the mind

[@captainbligh3894]

8 years FAA , 34 years airliners . Retired , I have just started the same. 5 days, never going back. Thanks for this. Gym everyday for the last 14 days . Brought by my daughter daily .😅

[@captainbligh3894]

Now 8 months free

[@simonfaulkner5596]

Tim, it's such a privilege to be following you through this journey, please keep documenting it. It is really hard to take advice from someone who has never faced the struggle but you are laying it bare for everyone to benefit from. Top man.

[@Medge2sc]

When I was 18 my mates were smoking and drinking a lot, I bet then that I could get a PPL for the same as they spent on booze I stepped away from the nights in the pubs and swapped it for studying air law etc, that was 20 years ago and I think it was one of the best decisions I ever made

[@seanturley7244]

Just started following you tim .I’ve been in recovery for 25years and your talking great sense mate .I used aa and it really helped as iwas in a bad way .but it’s not living in the illness idont need reminding about my past drinking .I’m 55 29 when I stopped I’ve had a great life thanks for you input xx

[@daveh1081]

Tim.......you're THE premier purveyor of good old fashioned common sense. People......listen to the man and take responsibility!!

[@bobg1069]

Hi Tim, after a 24 year career in the RAF, I went from one drinking culture, into the business World and into yet another one. Fortunately, I was never a big bar and pub person and that may have saved me. I stopped drinking any form of alcohol on 1st November last year (2022) but I take no credit for that, not did it take any will power. I woke up one morning and just thought: 'I don't need this and my body reacts badly to it, so stop doing it'. I have not touched a drop since and as will power is not required, I don't see that changing. Great you may say; no, not so much. I have replaced it with food and put on pounds. Now that is my struggle and my challenge. If one thing doesn't get you, something else will.

[@andrewferguson3535]

10/10 for discipline. When I started flying the culture was all about drinking. If you didn’t drink your career was in jeopardy. Quitting drinking is easy and the longer you’ve stopped the better.

[@hertzvador2220]

Love your honesty and strong ability to learn from your mistakes

[@cam5376]

Our brains and bodies have not evolved beyond the savannahs of Africa 50,000 years ago. Yet here we are in a modern environment to which those brains and bodies are totally unsuited, eating addictive processed industrialised “food” produced in factories, subjected to stresses we have just not evolved to deal with. You briefly touched upon sugar, it’s everywhere. Alcohol has never been a problem for me, I drink very little, I have cut out a lot of sugar and prioritise gut health. I’ve always been active, cycling, walking etc but they are very specific exercises and not whole body. I discovered Tai Chi after retirement, which is brilliant for both mind and body, give it a go.

[@karlp4222]

Wise words Tim. Stopped alcohol when I left the Raf 5yrs ago. Try growing your own fruit and veg. Sorts the body and the mind out.

[@landoremick7422]

Retired this year at 61 feom a job that became quite toxic due to management midwits. Still trying to find my way and settle into the final phase of my life. Tim's videos are helpful and thought provoking. Keep up good work Tim. And wish your business venture fair winds and prosperity.

[@Warp75]

I stopped because I knew it was a major weakness of my personality so it had to go. I don’t miss it & I don’t even think about it.

[@andrewbram7314]

I commented on your other video, I'm 51 ex army and Brought up around alcohol from mum dad uncles literally everyone. I'm now realising later on even though I'm fit run and train I still drink heavily and mess up and drink drive and gamble because of drink. I say do and behave under the influence of drink terrible as well. You're videos are really helpful and have made me see I'm not alone and there's a lot of men who rather shut up put up and neck a bottle than look long and hard at themselves. Thanks for being so honest and keep up the great work. Andrew b

[@danvercillo]

When a window of mental fortitude and clarity is opened, unwavering strength and determination are sure to follow. Kudos to you sir.

[@WatchingtheWorldBurning]

You caught me at the perfect time. Some great stuff. "The Devil comes down hardest on those meant to shine the brightest".

[@FastJetPerformance]

Maybe that's meant to be you 💯👍

[@samgarlick9585]

Tim as always a good insight and the fact that you “can” be bothered to share your thoughts and feelings with others makes a difference and just to come away from a stressful job and just listen to your blogs podcasts life insights takes me away for those few moments. I don’t have an issue with alcohol or any other kind of addiction but respect the insight you have I love flightsim DCS etc that is my release but what I do realise is taking the time to ‘listen’ as opposed to thinking really helps you are right people over think stuff but actually just listening is great either to someone like yourself that has passion and respect or listening to your body telling you stop that smoking shit stop that drinking stop that gambling but only if you want to but If you can’t stop (thankfully I am not there yet….) one thing you can do is listen keep up the good work I am thinking of joining shadowlands but like everything if it costs you have to commit the time and I’m not quite sure I have the time just yet. But thanks Tim I love what you do :)

[@chriswylde1156]

I remember one of your video posts a couple years back, when you referenced William Porter's book 'Alcohol Explained' The juice and I have had a mixed relationship; the master/servant role was sometimes in question! Porter does well in explaining how the buzz from booze is so short-term, while the toxins remain in the body far longer, ( too slim a wick for such a girth of wax). So, we recharge the buzz with yet more juice, increasing the toxicity in our bodies. Bang on with how we condition neuro-pathways to estabish apthways that expect us to consume. Breaking those pathways puts us in our stretch zone, for chronic boozers, the panic zone. For me, I enjoy it. I do sometimes wish it was not a part of my life, and that is something I still wrestle with. But on the whole, I'm just not there yet. Well done for all you have achieved for yourself in these 7 months. cheers!

[@farty1000]

Your a Legend Timbo!! your honesty with warts an all is immensely valuable! as a person who was once killed in a motorcycle accident (dead for 7 mins till the woo woos arrived) who has anxiety issues, you help and inspire me. one day when my flying gets better and i have a better shift times to fit I would love to join your flight school.

[@johnnyballbag8916]

Enjoying the positive energy brother. I have smoked, I have drunk but my brain is wired so that I can drop anything I want whenever I want. When I didn’t want to smoke any more I didn’t. When I didn’t want to drink I didn’t. I can drop people from my life if I want and not bat an eyelid. My partner is the exact opposite and struggles with booze, people taking the piss out of her generosity, smoking etc. the only thing she has ever quit is quitting. Another good quote for you; Do or do not, there is no try - Yoda - 1980

[@simonrichardson5203]

Sat in bed on a Sunday at 10:30 , the penny has dropped , ex infantry used to be very fit and I can't work out why I can't control my brain and am over thinking all the time and not moving, 1 day wasted drinking 1 to 2 days recovering = 3 days wasted

[@chaffcutter58.]

I hear you mate,Ex Infantry zArmy Aviation, your slot on ,Im the same its a slow ,waste of life Z,Im aiming on quitting alcohol. Wish you well in your recovery.

[@shmurphy40]

Hi Tim. I get hooked on these videos your putting out now. 2 ½ years of the booze, been easy, far from it. I think all the years I drank the booze gave me something to hide behind, hid the person I am now. I’m more caring, out there trying to help, when I drank, didn’t give a fuck about any one or anything, as long as I got my fix. Keep it going pal, you might still find you have days when you think a bottle holds the answer but battle on. Great job pal.

[@martinbell8369]

I've never really drank, but I remember a quote from a friend of mine who stopped because "The night before stopped making up for the morning after".

[@zekezero12345]

You can train out of it for sure, but it's as hard to do as it is easy to go back. As a man, physicality , the outdoors, walking, beasting yourself is always a positive in my book. It will burn away the unanswered questions. Big shout out to the Malvern Hills out there in the distance, my own personal sanctuary.

[@Snipermac99]

AA is about building relationships to support you and get you back on track when it inevitably goes pair shaped. Each to their own because in the end we all have to find our own way. I'm rooting for you.

[@PhilipBallGarry]

And Al Anon for family and friends too. The first question asked is understandably "How do I stop this person from drinking". The simple answer as you might have guessed is, "You can't". What you can do is learn to change your own behaviour to live your own life free from the negativity. And very importantly learn how to stop enabling ❤️

[@paulwheeldon3487]

I noticed yesterday, how good you are now looking, during the bang seat video. Good on you.

[@richardprowse1088]

Tim, spent much of the '80s and early '90s in the RAF heavy drinking culture. Now that I'm in my late '50s looking back, it was a waste and I regret not being strong enough to say no. I also work by myself, and it is easy to get trapped in a bubble. If you fancy a change of scene and are ever near Cheltenham pop in to my workshop for a brew, kettle is always on.

[@pumpkinpie2512]

2 year in November for me. Its easy to stop, you choose to.

[@nigelscott1922]

What you need is one of these 🐕, the only philosopher you need, seriously.

[@andrewnicholls4755]

That's awesome Tim, wise words and from the heart.

[@Lionheart1157]

Hi Tim, agree with that you are doing. Am 10 years in to dealing with addiction, that deep habit of desire. My experience of what works matches what you advocate: renunciation, intention, commitment and diligence to the cause. All are in our agency so JFDI. Hard medicine for an alcoholic to hear, but until we change our mind that way our alcohol habit will continue. There's a lot more to life to enjoy and do that makes for a better tomorrow. I like how you expressed how alcoholics get selfish: while we drink everyone else is getting ignored, that helps me. One other key learning I have had is to expect and accept suffering in life, and to use that experience of suffering positively - it's always going to come along one way or another, whoever we are. I believe you are doing valuable work. Thank you.

[@FastJetPerformance]

Yes, the acceptance of suffering is something that I also explore. Also, the current accepted narrative that we shouldn't suffer and that life must be comfortable I also try and challenge, thank you for the comment.

[@johnwhite9994]

Lovin your approach to difficult subjects we men and more so former military find difficult to speak about. I've taken many things from the words you share and slowly but surely it's putting me in a better place, in the world. Keep'em coming Tim, top channel and top work fella!

[@FastJetPerformance]

Thanks John, all the best to you.

[@redtela]

100% addiction is a choice. Not an easy choice, no matter what the addiction is, but it is still a choice. Not alcohol related, but in the past, I used to be an utter tool on a motorcycle, addicted to the adrenaline. Then one day I came off, not wearing protective kit, and only at 15mph. Tarmac does awful things to flesh even at that speed. I healed up well enough. The next time I went to get on the bike, my daughter, then aged 6, ran over to give me a hug, with a "Daddy, please don't hurt yourself on your motorbike again." That was enough motivation that just typing it now brought a tear to my eye - and she's now in her 20's. I still ride, but if the risks are too much for me to uphold the promise I made that day, I don't do it.

[@diamondgeezer1665]

Top man. I'm still trying to get the courage to do it but your helping.... Thanks mate.

[@davidpain87]

Hi Tim, I enjoy your channel. I am a retired Pilot also. I totally agree you have to own the need to drink and as a result, stop. Talking about it at AA did not work for me but taking personal responsibility did. All the best Dave.

[@FastJetPerformance]

Yes, personal responsibility was the only way I could stop, David - lovely to meet you.

[@America2gether]

By the Grace of God...I am free.

[@carlmackenzie9061]

I can’t tell you how much I needed to see this video, so much of it resonated with me, thank you Tim.

[@FastJetPerformance]

Anytime, wishing you all the best.

[@shedactivist]

A great and powerful video. I like the point about it being a choice pure and simple. Thinking of it as an addiction just gives you an excuse when you fail. As you say, you have to own it. Unfortunately there are those who are alcohol dependent and proper medical intervention is required to prevent physiological trauma when first abstaining, but from then on you have to own it. I gave up alcohol in order to support my better half who was dying of alcohol. I don't miss it when I think of what a massive distraction it is so I like the quotation you presented. I shall look up Wes Watson.

[@Hatredy11]

“If a man has no vices, he's in great danger of making vices out of his virtues, and there's a spectacle. We've all seen them: men who were monsters of philanthropy and women who were dragons of purity. ... No, no - nurse one vice in your bosom. Give it the attention it deserves and let your virtues spring up modesly around it.” ― Thornton Wilder

[@robd2184]

That’s a brilliant quote Tim ! I have an addictive personality too but this manifested itself in obesity rather than booze ….then I lost 100lbs of weight and cleaned up my act . I could easily have gone off the rails with booze so I do my best to avoid it now

[@robertsonjam]

Great discussion Tim and thanks for broaching the concept of body driving the mind/mood. I have a challenging and pressured job environment (I'm never stressed) but often work does suck me in and drive my mood, diet, relationships etc. The only way I have found a way to manage and maintain control is by looking after my physical fitness, and staying on top of that, and prioritising it so I do at least one intensive activity daily, a long hard cycle, heavy lifting in the gym etc. If I consistently skip a few days of not exhausting myself physically (purging all the crap of work and life) my mood decreases, work starts to feel heavy and it becomes a downward spiral and so on. We are of chemical composition and by exercising we can absolutely stimulate the release of feel good endorphins etc, which positively lifts my approach to challenges including my high pressures work. It's telling that if i have a night out, chemicals in alcohol give me the fear for days after, lower my focus and motivation for almost everything (except junk food). I know some people will say "oh I don't have the time to exercise" which is often BS. There are 24 hours in a day, 7/8 hrs on average are for sleeping, that leaves 16hours for work, family, life admin, etc, surely most can carve out just 1hr out those 16hr to do some physical workout. Alot of people I know will watch tele in the evening for several hours. So life's about choices and prioritising. And I have prioritise my wellbeing over some other things in order to maintain balance and be happy. I should add, having a supportive wife who "gets it" and buys into me spending time exercising helps alot. You only have one life, one body, and one chance. So don't prioritise drink, or let work dominate everything, prioritise the things you need to proactively do to lead a better life for you and the people closest to you. Apologies for the length of comment. Your video really resonated and I wanted to share my experience to hopefully help validate some of your points. Take care Tim and really enjoy the content and openness.

[@earlchapman8729]

Poignant words shared by you, that, as l’ve come to this crossroads of mine, have caused me to think and helped me find a way forward. Thanks.

[@skylongskylong1982]

Addiction is a choice. That is going to upset a lot of people, as we live a world, where mental crutch is away of life. I think you are right.

[@FastJetPerformance]

We live in a soft world that's about to require very tough men and women I think.

[@121five]

Tim we are a lot a like, same age, same physique, both high energy pilots. Watching this video is like watching myself talk 5 years ago. I had reached the wall of “fucking it up” also and just quit, finally this time for good. I think the difference to make it stick this time was: 1. Told my drinking buddies I was done, they would never see me drink again. Very Important! 2. Made a “self hypnosis” script reminding me of some very stupid shit I had done and a very detailed account, with some specific examples, how sick I had made myself the next day on the “poison”. Made myself connect drinking a beer with vomiting, and the terrible hangovers and “unsafe” days that followed. I re-enforced that thought over and over. I see a beer, I think of puking. Over the years I have had to remember to do this as the old “beer was good” on a hot summer day by the lake thoughts appear - I am so used to not drinking now I can let the thoughts pass now, accepting they do appear. Didn’t I tell my friends they would NEVER see me drink again? and oh yeah, I think I am going to puke! Ha ha. 3. Enjoy the endless list of positives! Feeling great in the am, waking up and exercising. Feeling good about my decision. I did it ;) 4. Watch Videos regularly, like yours, re-enforcing that I made the right decision and that there are so many out there going through exactly the same thing. Good on you Tim! 5. Lead by example. I am an example to my friends that it can be done. They will never see me drink again.

[@JR-wu1fg]

Great stuff. I can attest to being an example, many of my friends remark how amazing it is to see me not drinking, I nod and carry on. A couple have even stopped as well...😄

[@FastJetPerformance]

I wrote some things down too when I was drinking - I sometimes re-read it to make me realise that times were definitely worse with alcohol.

[@chaffcutter58.]

Thank you so much for this video. Officers like you are a awesome example. Rare.

[@christosswc]

1:45 in you hit the nail on the head. You need to replace it. Same with smoking. You can't just quit and take either out of your life. They need be replaced. They were a replacement themselves. If you were to ask me, the first and most important replacement for drinking/smoking is exercise. Preferably aerobic exercise, swimming, running, that kind of stuff, that help one release stress and calm down. Swimming is best, it combines aerobic exercise with Yoga, every time you exhale underwater it's like a big oooooph moment. At the end of the day though, one need to be real about it. Something made you start drinking in the first place. That something is a difficult period of your life, perhaps too much work, too much stress, not having enough time to look after yourself. So THAT needs to change, need to reorganize your life to invest more in you, not because you are the most important in the world, it's not an ego trip, it's because it's obvious you need it, you were deprived of it. And by looking after yourself and improving yourslef, you can be a much better person for those you love as well. Cannot be useful to anyone by being a mess. Looking after yourself can be the most altruistic thing you do, if the reason you do it is your realization you cannot look after those that depend on you as well as you think you ought to.

[@FastJetPerformance]

That's my thinking that you need to create the best version of yourself in order to be an example to and to help those around you. Thank you for the comment, much appreciated and very useful.

[@CalliesFamily]

You have it right again Tim, as always. I gave up the tabs in 2006 after 20+ years, and multiple attempts previously to quit. Twice I lasted 12 months tab-free, yet still managed to start again. Crazy, I know. Problem was, with those attempts, it was a case of trying to prolong not smoking.... seeing how long you could go not smoking. That was a loosing battle and totally the wrong approach. Denying yourself something you want, leads to the craving. I gave up cold turkey thought Alan Carr's The Easy Way. Same for alcohol as for tobacco. If you tell yourself you can have the tabs or booze if you want it. It's there, no one is stopping you. But you don't want to have that drink or smoke, then the craving totally disappears. There is no craving. Simple. Easy. so when. you say you don't want to drink, ever, then that's the easiest approach. Trick is, as you've identified, is to replace the void, the crutch that you relied on for so long. I think you've found that in Shadowlands. Helping others, teaching others, it keeps the mind busy. I know colleagues who said they needed to drink in order to fall asleep at night. I don't know about you but a few hours on DCS and some testing missions, I am mentally exhausted and sleep comes easy! Keep up the good fight Tim. Will see you on shadowlands at some point soon when I find time to sign up!

[@matthewwiddows6319]

Thanks Tim for the video, great insight, as I have said before never something I assumed would have affected someone in your profession so much.

[@googlyeyedbeast4238]

Went to rehab for alcohol dependency. Was not AA based but much more person centred. Too many rules for me with AA. Person centred approach worked for me. Met a few people who used AA. It worked for them. Now my drinking is what I would consider "normal", occasional glass of wine. May go out and have a few but this is rare. No longer have a "need" for it. Don't consider myself an alcoholic or recovering alcoholic and never have done. When I was referred by GP, met with mental health nurse who advised me not to stop drinking, due to withdrawal risk. Had to go through detox in hospital prior to rehab.

[@nell219]

Saw WES WATSON... 15 months later total sabriety,,,,, diet,gym, positive mind set,, well done tim. LETS GOOO,,,,,,,💯%

[@kenscott876]

Just subscribed to your channel Tim, really enjoying it. Thanks for what you’re doing. I abused alcohol for 2 decades, and quit 13 years ago. The longer you are away from booze, the better life gets (at least that’s been my experience). I’m in better shape now at 57 than I was at 40. My brain is clearer too. Good for you . Cheers from Canada

[@learnmore3017]

"addiction is a choice" I think that is true but I also believe it is not entirely a conscious choice and that is why it is so hard to change those behaviors as you say you just cant think your way out of it.

[@AdmV0rl0n]

Each person has their battle. I think the most powerful input here, is if you drink, and you could be using the time better, doing something, competing, winning, taking part, learning, moving forwards - these 'things' are a good replacement for staring in the bottom of a bottle. In this man's case, RAF has a 28 plane Hawk program where very few hours fly. He's running a flight school thats probably got a higher out put of pilots than a top tier nation state. Seems like as good a reason as any to celebrate and kick an unwanted habit.

[@distortedreality4603]

Great video Tim ! I've just been diagnosed with non alcoholic fatty liver disease, after watching your video ive decided to have a break from alcohol, I don't drink during the week but tend to give the ball a good kick at weekends, the doctor told me I don't need to stop although that would obviously help, but I wanted you to know your video had inspired me to have a break from it, you never know i might stop altogether, we will see how it goes. Thanks Tim all the best 👍

[@FastJetPerformance]

Take a break if you want and just see how it goes - we are all different so what works for me might not work for you. Let me know how you get on and best of luck with whatever you do.

[@distortedreality4603]

@@FastJetPerformance Thank you, and I will definitely 👍

[@birdman4274]

Great talk Tim. Keep this going on top of the flying stuff. I'm in your camp. I'm still not right after 2 days like some are. There's still something missing. But one of them I think is calories. Those lagers have loads and I just didn't miss the alcohol, I missed the calories too.

[@WizardOfCheese]

gym replacing alcohol is a good one, especially when you start learning about 'gym stuff', protein synthesis and all that, the two counter eachother. so to me it's like, why am i wasting all this time and effort/pain in the gym to go and undo it all with binge drinking... i like a pint myself, but i rarely have more than 2 these days. i think i've just grown out of it, luckily.

[@matthewrowe9903]

Been on your channel for a while boss I didnt drink until i spent a decade on Anglesey on my own its hard really hard I gave up smoking in a week but this is a dam sight harder

[@PhilipBallGarry]

Happiness is an inside job 👍

[@rwhunt99]

I like what you're saying, but unfortunately, not everyone is as tough, as confident, and as in control as you. but, as I said, I am more your type of guy, I do drink and I've had some issues but I have control over what I do and when I do it. I do believe that some people are more susceptible to alcoholism than others, similar to drug addicts are easily controlled by their addiction. I do think people are more susceptible to what others think or say than anything else. From your description, you are an alcoholic, but you've grabbed it by the balls and giving it a good shake. I do hope others will listen to you and say, you know what, if this guy can do it, I think I can too. I do love that qoute you mentioned and will keep that.

[@gregtaylor6146]

So inspirational Tim, thank you! EDIT: ........ and what you are saying is NOT bollocks.

[@matthewc.419]

You have to be really STRONG to STOP , im weak tired and past broken 😪

[@davidpain87]

Matthew, I’m only trying to help. Alcohol makes you think you are weak tired and broken, it plays with your emotions. It took me about 6 months to get it out of my brain. Yes it’s hard to start with but with each day sober you will feel less broken and more positive. I’m far from a role model. Be STRONG. All the very best Dave.

[@michaelh-uk3867]

Enjoyed this. Former Air Force and 22 years in civil police here. Alcoholic, 5 years down the line and now work in drug and alcohol services. Agree with a lot of what you have said, but not all of it. I don’t like the disease model because I am convinced we make conscious decisions round alcohol and other drugs. Unfortunately, the conscious control you have is increasingly taken from you the longer it goes on. Exercise is a huge part of my recovery, but it is not a panacea. You cannot out-train alcoholism, just like you cannot out-train a poor diet. What I do know for sure and something I think you will agree with, recovery is a program of ‘action’, you cannot think your way out of it. Cognitively speaking Tim, I think it was only at the year point that I started to feel the missing ingredient was no longer missing. It takes a while to despair the neurological damage we put ourselves through. Pathways to Recovery are many. It’s great to see you are doing so well.

[@FastJetPerformance]

Thank you, Michael, that's a valuable comment and much appreciated.

[@johnshore7976]

Thanks

[@FastJetPerformance]

Thank you, John, hope you are well 👍

[@penmaker1968]

Tim, I worked with your dad for a number of years. One of my work colleagues drank far too much (in the end a bottle of vodka a day) and I knew how much he was drinking. In the end he drank himself into oblivion and to this day I blame myself for not doing more to stop him. I haven’t drunk a drop since he died 16 years ago. Keep up the fight mate.

[@FastJetPerformance]

Thank you for that knowledge and for looking after my father, very much appreciated and sorry to hear about the loss of your colleague.

[@Bigalldone]

Powerful. Thank you Tim.

[@hernzo9798]

Couldn’t drink everyday but don’t mind a few social drinks now and then . Sometimes a few become 6 pints gota work on cutting it down.

[@firstpestcontrol276]

Just found your channel by accident and so glad I did. Thank you

[@deaddropholiday]

Well done, mate. I was pretty fortunate in getting off the booze easier than most. It was the depressive qualities of alcohol which did it for me. That and the realization I'd started drinking midweek. Had to go. Haven't missed it in over ten years.

[@subliminalart.1637]

Imagine how much wealth you save has a tea totalitarian. Its wonderful to see that you are on a new healthy path.👍😎🇬🇧

[@dronemonkey2038]

Tim, Have a look at the work of Canadian Dr Gabor Maté and his work understanding addiction.

[@gglehteswhtemnAdChrstns]

Thanks Tim. That always gives hope. I spent 17 years in tactical roles in the Army and Police and my body is paying for it with interest. Once my divorce and spinal surgery is over I have a plan to going back alcohol free. Doctors in Aus are terrible and actually encourage drinking for sleep and pain relief. Apparently it’s all to fall into line with Trudeau’s manufactured fentanyl crisis.

[@DCSHacks]

Welcome Neighbour! Fantastic Series. Some of the best and most thought provoking content you've done!

[@andybakr]

Thank you for sharing this Tim, your the man and your making such a big difference 😊

[@whetstonelad]

Tim, write a self-help book or employ a ghost-writer. That'll drag the mind in a positive direction. Love you.

[@Michael-4]

It is a timewaster and a performance sucker but I'm lucky in that I can share a bottle of red wine with a decent meal and then go weeks without ever thinking of having a drink. I've worked as a therapist with people in the food and beverage/entertainment world and like the military, your environment and the culture pretty much guarantee you will go down that road unless you are very conscious of how it insidiously influences you. Yes, the reason WHY you want to stop is the most important question and journaling about this over and over will help cement sustained abstinence over time. You can also look at why you drink beyond your environment. Usually, you simply want a change of state. If you identify the cause of the unwanted state (sadness, boredom, anxiety..) you can begin to find productive ways to respond to those signals your mind and body are flagging up.

[@Payne2view]

Not to sound smug but I never started drinking. Anything where I had to 'aquire the taste' or saw people do to fit-in, never interested me. I always said "If I want to get giddy & fall over, I can always spin around for free". Yet, and its a yetti of a yet, I admit that I probably have other things I do which keep me spinning my wheels going nowhere. I'm 53 & literally don't have time to do everything I'd have liked but what I can do is make my even older age better by looking after my health.

[@timhancock6626]

In my 20s I had to end a relationship because of her drink problem. We stayed friends, she eventually went to AA and she hasnt had a drop for nearly 40 years. It changed her life vastly for the better, but it doesnt mean the bad things in life go away. You have to be resilient and I suspect thats when AA can support you. If not AA then someone else prepared to prop you up in the bad times, or just listen.

[@dermotrooney9584]

Well done Tim. Stoic. ✊️

[@JR-wu1fg]

Brilliant, the why is the important question. No matter how many times I could see alcohol damaging my life, when my wife would note it I became defensive and belligerent. In the end, why? I wanted to be respected, and not some slurring drunk talking crap, I wanted to become a better Husband, Father and Friend, face the truth and be aware. I can second the stopping and not feeling instantly wonderful, it took over 6 months for the headaches and the fuzziness to stop. Be patient. I also agree with replacing all that dead drinking time with filling it with higher quality pursuits, be it being engaged (not idling away time drinking)with friends and family or working on cars or building stuff from wood and metal. Fitness is also a great payback and high return self investment, do it. That description of you going away on holiday, is far too close to the bone, me in a past life. First at the bar and one of the last to leave, beer, cocktails wine with dinner and why not single malt to finish.....Exhausting. I'm quite sure if I had not changed I would be if not, very close to divorce, and I would not have been a good father to my 2 teenage daughters. Here is to no more hangovers!!! Keep up the good work, and best wishes to all of you trying to change habits, its wonderful and you won't know yourself.

[@zulu5282]

25 year hard drinking Aviator. I left in 2007, 2110 I left the booze behind and never looked back. I don't miss it but I do regret what I did to my mind body and spirit.

[@Phil132]

Good luck Tim. The future comes one day at a time.

[@1over137]

I made it 3 weeks dry after I had an anxiety episode which took me out of work. I'm not going t-total but the regular drinking and binge drinking has to go. Once a week is too much now. Once a month or special occasions is where I'm going to. Used to treat my Friday nights as my "teenager" nights with no rules. Broke that habit at 48 as it's stupid. Next I have to get back off the cigarettes and back onto the vape (at least).