I gave up alcohol for 5 months and this happened...

[@EmperorTigerstar]

Went from a Trailer Park Boys Julian in drinking to a Trailer Park Boys Julian in outlook. Good work dude!

[@VikoTheBassist]

Weird seeing channels I know commenting on other people’s videos of a completely different type of channel

[@loweffortproductions1985]

*Snap* Smokes, let's go

[@hollowify_tensa_zangetsu]

I look at myself as ricky.

[@amwilson2551]

You know a guy is a true master when he climbs out of a rolled car without having lost a drop of rum & coke.

[@TBone4Breakfast]

My friends pulled me out of the hole alcohol puts you in after I lost a daughter. I know you dont know me, but Im fucking proud of you dude

[@TVert-fy2gy]

I am so sorry for your loss.

[@lesclaypoolonbass9431]

Sorry for your loss man

[@etherboy3540]

Dude, I'm proud of you too. I have a 7-year old son. I can't even imagine.

[@tyqwer4570]

So sorry for your loss man, wishing and praying for the best for you in the future and hope your doing okay

[@connoriquada5429]

You seem like you got some real genuine homies dude. I’m proud of you too, loosing a daughter is the worst thing that can happen to someone and you got out of the rut. Mad props ❤️

[@i-anhsieh98]

“Drinking the alcohol shouldn’t be the fun activity that u supplement with ppl and other activities, instead it should supplement the enjoyable time u already have with the ppl u love.” That’s truly inspiring; rock on Mike 🤘🤘🤘

[@guguigugu]

marylin manson once said you should only take drugs when you feel good, not when you feel bad. this was pretty important for 15yo me to understand.

[@theunclejesusshow8260]

Truth is ,Folkz don't always take their Supplement at the right Time or the Right Amount.

[@silvercloud1641]

Willie Nelson on weed in Halfbaked, "It wasn't a thing to do because it was a thing to do, you know? It was a thing to do because it got you high. Can you dig it?"

[@KillbotAndGorGorAttack]

When you think about it, alcohol consumption is so engrained in our culture in details you wouldn’t even realize until its pointed out. And unhealthy habits are encouraged even subliminally. That barbecue story brought this to mind.. you do look better, man! Congrats \m/

[@floridianthrasher5426]

Good point

[@notliam2396]

Good point. Love your videos!

[@kmkall6874]

No different than too much of anything. Alcohol has destroyed more lives/family’s than any disease

[@hawknasty696]

@@kmkall6874 couldn't agree more. Alcohol should be stigmatized similarly to harder drugs just for the reason of it having destroyed so many more lives

[@dewashishmanjoshi5926]

mike: talks about Christian music mike: gives up drinking me: I'm starting to see a pattern here

[@HeavyMetal-jy4vj]

We should have a CCM night just to encourage Mike and prove there's SOME good stuff out there.

[@KenoxProductions]

@@HeavyMetal-jy4vj "Song Suggestion Friday but it's only CCM", would be fun to watch.

[@notoriusdrifter40]

Prog CCM

[@jamestheguitarslayer1195]

Christians drink lol

[@jonathannaughton8554]

🤣

[@AD1978leo]

Something I've been telling myself for years. Drink to celebrate, never to forget.

[@BecomeTheKnight]

Imma keep that a mantra 🤘🔥

[@evamoor2377]

One of the accomplishments I'm most proud of is quitting smoking. Waning or any gradual process never worked for me, it was either a full stop or keep smoking. So when I got scared I'd die I quit. And man was it horrible. I didn't start binge eating, I was angry instead, all the bloody time. It was a difficult couple of months - and now, after more than a year in lockdown limiting drinks feel even harder. Every last of my hats are off to you now. Congratulations, from the bottom of my heart.

[@joshuaha7661]

Congratulations brother. Proud of you. Cigarettes were the only thing I couldn't quit.. Just couldn't. Everything else I eventually let go of, but smoking is something else completely.

[@andrejz8954]

Congrats. I too quit good 3 years ago after 15 or so years of passionate smoking. One of the hardest things to do indeed!

[@TVert-fy2gy]

Congrats on your amazing journey and self-awareness! I quit smoking after 24 years, pack and a half a day habit, and I don't miss it -- even the smell disgusts me. It is enslaving. Stick with it! Stay free. 🤘

[@TheNerdyGinger]

Very interesting to hear your perspective on this. I'm glad you were able to learn about yourself and come out of this a better, healthier person.

[@Raptorsalad]

Man, this felt like my own thoughts being spoken back at me. I quit alcohol with my fiance on January 3rd, and just had my first drink since then last night. Your revelation of alcohol as a social lubricant, not a fun activity in itself, is exactly the conclusion I came to.

[@kristoffliftoff9316]

Nice dude I have been doing the same for about 4 months, I haven’t been completely sober but definitely quit drinking as much. Since then I have went from 197lbs to 155lbs, I had a lot more energy (at least after the first two weeks, the first two I was lethargic af), more confidence, better at playing my instruments and more dedicated to practice! Glad to hear you’re doing better! Keep going strong!

[@trashcan7175]

Nice, we all have something to work on to be on better health.

[@evamoor2377]

If you cut it down, it's a win. Congrats, dude!

[@harrysachs2274]

Alcohol was a serious problem in my life. The biggest, in fact. I never thought I'd be able to quit, but I just stopped. The first week was rough, because I had severe anxiety attacks and hallucinations, smoking pot didn't help. After that, I started feeling much better. It's been 8 years. I have zero issues being around it, I have zero interest in having a drink. Now, this isn't to say in a sober soldier. I still smoke pot, but if you didn't know I smoke pot, you'd never be able to tell. I no longer piss off everyone I know, I can do my hobbies better, in fact, playing guitar was my biggest help. I loved playing it and I couldn't play as well drunk, so it took over the time I used to spend being a pile. Booze is fine if you can drink responsibly. If you're like me that's an impossibility.

[@HeavyMetal-jy4vj]

I am almost 197 pounds and am basically addicted to sodas I wonder if I would have a similar affect, thanks for the inspiration!

[@imabigfan5271]

@@HeavyMetal-jy4vj it absolutely does make an enormous difference. To energy, mood, and physical health. I can confirm

[@MarvinCZ]

I'm proud of you. Both for your perseverance and for what you've learned along the way.

[@BecomeTheKnight]

Marvin I can't thank you enough for all you contribute to the channel 🙏🙏

[@nvlarcht]

I always thought the whiskey thing was more of a prop more than anyhting.

[@BecomeTheKnight]

It was, but I definitely love me some whiskey

[@nvlarcht]

@@BecomeTheKnight Me too! I just get the expensive ones so i can't afford to get drunk lol

[@brandonhey7797]

@@nvlarcht I- That's actually kinda smart.

[@nygiants440]

@@nvlarcht I honestly take what I can get first of all cause I’m 14 but 2 because I’m poor

[@WaffleOnTheRun]

@@nygiants440 dont start drinking that early bud you don’t want to make it a habit

[@meekoloco]

Man, I’m happy for ya. Congratulations! I quit drinking over 5 years ago and reclaimed my dignity and the respect of my friends and family.

[@lucash653]

Inspiring story man, huge respect for your commitment and your growth. I'm 19 and I thought I had a responsible relationship with alcohol but you brought up that you were essentially drinking backward and that made a lot of sense to me, as I think I approach it the same way. Great video!

[@thedizzydj6623]

Your level of self awareness is truly impressive. Most people never achieve that kind of understanding of their own behaviors. The necessary amount of self honesty required to see one's own poor behavior is not an easy acomplishment. To be able to quit not one, but two extremely addictive substances is incredible. Well done. I wonder of it effected your playing for better or worse?

[@BecomeTheKnight]

Rehearsals are more successful sober lmao! And had to find a different way of tapping into inspiration. Alcohol is very inspiring for me. But otherwise no real impact one way or the other. I made it a habit to be sober while practicing at home.

[@DaveWalshMusic]

I was gigging 5 to 6 nights a week sometimes doing double shifts. Always around alcohol all the time then it spread into the slow season. Drinking 6 to 10 drinks per day and always mixing beer and liquor consecutively on top of taking headache meds constantly. I had to take 6 months off completely because I gave myself a fatty liver from 7 years of daily drinking. I'm lucky it started hurting and I was able to stop soon enough and recover. Liver pain is fucking pure hell and there's no pill for it. You all are warned do not think that anyone can remain a functioning alcoholic forever. It will kill you.

[@JeroenBIG]

Cool to hear you ve quit. It’s kinda normal to drink in certain circles definitely as a musician. After all the audiance is also doing it so...

[@MidlifeRenaissanceMan]

@@JeroenBIG one thing that was pointed out to me in my early 20s, was, when I was in a bar playing music, or mixing bands, I was working. I was being paid to do a job. I wasn’t out on the town. It got me used to being in and around bars and alcohol and not drink. I drink occasionally. I’ll grab a shot of whiskey neat in a tumbler to sip if I’m going on stage, or a glass or two of wine when we have a dinner rider. But not always. Lucky for me it’s a choice, not a compulsion.

[@popwarner8029]

@@MidlifeRenaissanceMan some people just don't pickup the habit as much as others. I drink , but I never picked up that filthy cigarette habit. They don't taste good and they don't get you high. I was playing Bass in a band and I always liked drinking few light beers while I played and most of the time I didn't drink too much because I didn't want to screw up on my playing. Now I still drink beer but I seem to be drinking more and more.

[@MidlifeRenaissanceMan]

@@popwarner8029 the older I get, the more I can drink with less effect. I tend to simply feel _off_ and that’s when I’ve had enough. I too never smoked cigarettes. I would save the money to spend on vinyl instead. :-)

[@seanemmettfullerton]

Thanks for sharing this… you said it! Our superpowers are self-knowledge and self-control. What a dynamic feeling to be both physically and mentally strong. Good on you, bro!

[@fxdeck]

Really fucking proud of you man. It’s really nice to see people finally recognize that alcohol and drugs should NEVER be the main thing, regardless of where you are, when you are there and what you’re doing. I’m pretty sure a lot of my friends are never going to recognize this and it saddens me an awful lot. Stay strong my dude!

[@davidfields8518]

Great Job brother, awesomeness, especially not having a drink to suppress all the pain and suffering endured during SSF 😆,seriously though great job 🤘🤘🤘 !!!!

[@MidnightAvalon]

Drinking for me will always be limited due to my family's propensity toward addiction and alcoholism. Basically I will have one drink whenever I want occasionally 2, but the second I feel a pull toward more I have to take a step back, I actually laid of drinking for about a month and half after a breakup in April due to how steep and slippery that slope can be. I'm glad that you made it through your goal because there are a lot that cannot.

[@pwn1ngw4ffl3s]

Man you have an insane amount of will power if you can stop yourself from drinking after a break up. That is something to be proud of.

[@MidnightAvalon]

@@pwn1ngw4ffl3s Trust me mate it was hard, right before finals week for school and I had some amazing whiskies to choose from. That was actually part of it, if I had some cheap brand I probably would have, but I like savoring my whiskies, particularly Islay scotch.

[@kitten-whisperer]

Mt family is full of addicts. I'm a herion junkie myself but I always hated alcohol. If you're drunk, going to the store is just horrible. Hungry for a burger? Well driving is out of the question. Bang up a bit if heroin and I can function all day.

[@tomlangley6236]

I drank heavily for 40 years. So much wasted time. Im 58 and last year I woke one day realizing my time on earth is winding down. I dont want to spend what time I have left laying around drunk and hung over. Ill drink a couple of beers now and then but that's it. My life is much better now.

[@adamdelarozza1985]

I didnt mind drinking, it was the mornings that convinced me drinking is 99.9% garbage.

[@smithfan22]

You look very healthy my man. Happy for you! 🤘

[@myopicautisticmetal9035]

I quit smoking cigs over 23 years ago, I own many more guitars now instead of full ash trey's. Proud of ya, ya snob! You do look healthier, bub!

[@genehasenbuhler2594]

I jumped off the bandwagon in 06! Been free of the beast ever since😁 stay healthy dude and you will be much happier now!

[@BlackNo1918]

This was an awesomely told experience, inspiring, deserves admiration. We need more of Mental Mike in our lives...

[@jaclynmonroe]

Proud of you my friend! 😎 Loved listening to your feedback on the experience.

[@mackenzieonyx7586]

totally off topic, but girl, THAT is good name you have 😍

[@undywood]

I just finished a fifth of bourbon. I've been been contemplating this very thing for a few weeks. I'm the same way in drinking regularly every night but solo, rather than with friends (other then online) I've been wanting to stop. I think this is the motivation I need to at the least slow it down. Appreciate you, my dude.

[@tsvetanlozanov3984]

I'll drink to that!

[@bigrig4385]

I quit 4 years ago. It helps me personally to admit out loud that I wish I could drink, but I've proven too many times why I'm incapable. I'm proud of you and anybody who takes a step back to eventually move forward.

[@Yenneffer]

So when are we getting the "I quit soda water for x months" video?

[@henrywardell723]

In x months

[@biopanda4226]

Soda water is good for you It’s soda without all the sugar and other bad things

[@lunahetfield]

Bio Panda the only soda i quit drinking was diet coke, now i only drink sprite becoz for some reason it tastes better than diet coke. Whenever i drink diet coke it literally tastes like shit to me.

[@biopanda4226]

@@lunahetfield same I hate diet

[@chart6454]

@@biopanda4226 think it can erode your teeth enamel but that’s easy to address.

[@ClaudioSanchezCC]

So to sum up you are now addicted to Club Soda?

[@mackenzieonyx7586]

club soda rly is a lifesaver tho 😁

[@LaurenElizabethxxxx]

Good for you my dude, it seems like you’re a lot happier so I hope you keep up with your new lifestyle

[@BarrickMacready]

Good stuff man I remember when I quit smoking. you have to want to stop smoking cigarettes and for me I was ready. I'll never stop smoking weed lol

[@erickmazur807]

Nice dude! 🤘

[@DoodleDad]

@Arthur Frayn Bro you are the first person that has said exactly what I've been thinking and going through. I use medical MJ for PTSD. After I built a tolerance to it, I stopped getting blown out of my mind and began to just relax without the crazy effects and now it's almost like taking a tylenol. Insane that we used to think pot was this crazy horrible drug.

[@55tmilam]

Sobriety is wonderful! I had 6 years and fell off the wagon for a couple years! Now I’ve taken my sobriety back thank God and I’m loving it!

[@buzzbabyjesus]

Congrats! My experience with alcohol has been to quit for a few months, think, "OK, I got this", and start drinking again, but with discipline. It never took too long to get back into the daily habit again. Nearly 4 years sober this time, and it just gets better.

[@Byenia]

Same experience here. I finally had to walk away from alcohol completely as well. What he's describing in the video are similar to thoughts I had years back after quitting for 7 months. Thought I could go back to drinking and handle it responsibly the next go-round. Wrong. Quit again, went back again. Yoyo-ed a few times before saying "screw it" and learning to just leave it alone. Still have cravings from time to time and recall those good times socially, but once it got out of control it created many bad times as well that just weren't worth risking any longer. It's interesting though how we each seem to have these eureeka moments where we gain some insight into our drinking problem and devise plans on how we'll better handle it going forward and believe it's going to work out just fine. heh Maybe that works for some folks, but I don't know hardly any of those types of people. Instead we go back and eventually succumb to old habits and things grow darker and less fun over time. Health suffers more. Social lubricant becomes a double-edged sword. At least that was the case for me and several people I've known. To each their own, but there does appear to be a cycle at play here, almost like a script in how often it repeats across people's lives.

[@josejalaeno73]

Hey man this is awesome! Even for people that aren’t classified as alcoholics and just enjoy a drink every now and then, 5 months without it is a long time. It shows you have self control and a strong will to achieve your personal goals, and it’s great that you learned so much about yourself during that time. So props to you! Also Rising Visionary was awesome! I’ve been sharing it with fellow prog heads in my circle and they all dig it too!

[@trashcan7175]

I can't relate with drinking alcohol or smoking constantly. I realize how dependent I was on coffee or sweet things. I went a day without coffee specifically which made me realize that I need worry about these habits to break it before it gets worse. Also, props to you for going through it.

[@frankspeciale5071]

Yeah that's the thing with coffee caffeine is a drug and you can withdraw from caffeine and it's available everywhere I'm constantly drinking redbull

[@trashcan7175]

@@frankspeciale5071 Yeah I need to learn how to lessen my caffeine amount in a day and get more tea that has less caffeine.

[@HeavyMetal-jy4vj]

Yeah for me, sweet things, I haven't touched booze for 4 years now, never smoked. In fact I don't take drugs to such a degree I wonder if I am missing out and having a bad life lol

[@Donnie-sg2cj]

Yep, sugar addiction is a real thing that not many people talk about. Google the research on it and it’s insane, especially considering how much it’s marketed to us and how it’s saturated in everything

[@frankspeciale5071]

@@Donnie-sg2cj yeah not many people talk about sugar especially white sugar is really bad

[@tracilackey7004]

This is the 1st time i have seen your channel.I have had a strong conviction to stop drinking.And this pops up.Thanks man.You are obviously very intelligent.I am going to listen to this daily.

[@mikeadams2677]

Mike, you deserve a big thumbs up, Attaboy 👍 for your accomplishments. I've been smoking for 27 years, I quit a couple of times, got the cravings bad, took a puff of relief, then the hook got set in my lip again. You're inspiring me to try again. I wish you success.

[@DJSmoothie]

After my wife & I got married, we talked about having kids. So we gave up our drinking for a year and from '20 - '21 we had two awesome kids. Girl was 9lbs - boy was 10.10lbs. I guess what I'm tryn to say is it doesnt hurt your social life or your body for that matter to give up drinking.

[@crzxm]

👍

[@jdestrada6281]

During quarentine was the first time in my life I started to abuse alcohol. Drinking straight, bottom shelf whiskey every night(yes every night) with beer did a lot of damage to my body and my mental. I still drink beer very heavily every night and can't seem to stop. This makes me want to stop. I think I'm gonna finally stop. I don't need it anymore.

[@latortugapicante719]

Man if you’re feeling depressed make sure you talk to a doctor. Maybe consider meds to get you back on track. Been a tough year for everyone

[@jdestrada6281]

@@latortugapicante719 It wasn't depression as much as it was boredom and outside influence. Haven't had a drink since this vid though. Feels kinda good!

[@JeroenBIG]

Yeah man, just stop. You will feel better. You have just done this since the lock down so not that long, just push it out of your system now.

[@thorpenator9148]

I did the same thing. Retired pretty young from a government job. Not having to get up early...i started drinking at 8 to 3 AM Every night. Sleeping till noon. I still don't think I'm an alcoholic..just have an OCD personality. It's a matter of changing patterns for me. Been 7 months now without alcohol...and sleeping like a baby now.

[@crzxm]

Find the strength to continue your decision.

[@sydberetta4649]

Cheers man, even a single month was a trial for me

[@bishopm4401]

But you did it. Good job!

[@seanbarker4610]

Well done mate, it's a great thing. Your body will thank you!

[@JacobStoneFilms]

I’m also working on drinking less. Like, my personality is at best when I’m sober. The alcohol really affects my depression and I get in my head.

[@519MaLoNeY]

Dude you articulated the beast PERFECTLY!! Just on the other side of the BRUTAL cravings are the realizations that make it SO much easier and appealing to stay clear headed. Great job man. Congrats.

[@ozeanaudio265]

I also am supporting a friend in her journey with this subject... Plus, let's be honest...I Needed to do this! I have been drinking since I was 13 years old...I'm now 54. Next month, July 26, '21 will be 1 year sober for me... It has been a challenge! But it has been one if the best decisions of my life! CONGRATULATIONS to everyone who chooses this path...

[@Shamelesspatriot1776]

As a recovering alcoholic/addict myself I know how crazy this entire experience is! I commemorate your self awareness and discipline

[@reneebreathesnitrox]

An interesting perspective and definitely eye-opening. As someone who also works for themselves, my social interactions have been basically zero since the pandemic started. I tend to go out alone and I have to have some hard liquor to speak with strangers, otherwise, I’ll sit by myself, which isn’t a good time.

[@markcrorrigan]

Thanks for your honesty, certainly opened up my mind to quitting too.

[@joethebar1]

I discovered wine about 14 years ago and loved it- the culture, the food pairing, all of it. Early this year, a friend turned me onto single malt scotch; I didn’t like hard liquor but after a few tastes. I started enjoying it- more than wine. Gave up wine and got into whiskey. The thing I noticed with whiskey ( neat or a bit of water), is that it’s delicious and when sipped, doesn’t cause any real negative effects. Not even a headache the next day. I realized that for about three months, I was drinking three triples a day and would drink more if it wasn’t so expensive. I decided that since I enjoy it so much, I have to make a conscious decision to limit the amount I drink because there’s no other warning signs to tell me to slow down

[@starrk7158]

I'm quite the opposite to you. I have gone 10 years from trying to not abusing alcohol to actually come round and start drinking and enjoying it more. This video is a lot of help though to make sure not to go too far with it. Great video.

[@ceci1202]

So proud of you! I'm a nurse and taking care of people who are dependent on chemicals is tough to watch sometimes. So many health issues, physically and mentally. Keep it up!

[@potatolew4495]

You have inspired me to follow your path. I am 44 and have been drinking everyday for the past, can't remember. I need a reality check to see if I can actually go without it as I have not in so long and never thought of it until watching this. Thanks for sharing Mike , I truly appreciated your honesty. Love your channel keep on raging.

[@handsomeawkward1822]

Nicely done dude! I have been off the booze for almost a year now. Both my wallet and my waistline are doing much better :). Also, that’s cool to hear that you were in Alaska. That’s where I’m from.

[@The_Bass_Stunters]

Going on 4 years without alcohol and I lost 70 pounds in the first 2 years. I experienced every emotion you have talked about here. It’s extremely empowering to understand you do have the discipline to say no and understand your a better person not intoxicated as in myself. Lol excellent vid my man.

[@crypticutopia7228]

It's interesting how everyone reacts differently to switching from cigs to vaping. I bought a vape with nicotine and completely stopped smoking and I was absolutely fine, no withdrawals or tension or anything.

[@hulkwarrior]

Never heard of you, glad for you, quit about 5 years ago and haven't looked back

[@involuntaryathlete5874]

All these things your saying are more common than you think. It's amazing how not drinking actually makes you more confident because your dealing with everything sober. that's great man. I'm glad you could experience this. When i quit drinking, i found my confidence and self esteem rose significantly which was surprising. i thought i would be less happy but it was the total opposite. I like your videos man.

[@battlemastermack6730]

Very proud you man, glad you set a healthy goal for yourself and were able to accomplish it! Rock On!!

[@susiestogsdill5075]

I've been able to leave drugs, alcohol, and cigarettes behind for a very long time now. It really frees up time, money, and mental capacity! Good on ya for paying attentiion along your journey!

[@jasons2210]

Good for you Mike. Im trying to cut back on the booze as well. Still drinking on the weekends with friends, but trying to completely stop drinking on weekdays at the minimum.

[@nadjimansouri8360]

I don't drink nor smoke,but this video really helped Me.

[@erickmazur807]

Dont start

[@nadjimansouri8360]

@@erickmazur807 what do you mean

[@sleepdeep305]

@@nadjimansouri8360 Don't start drinking or smoking

[@nadjimansouri8360]

@@sleepdeep305 Sure man

[@crzxm]

How did it help?

[@seancostello7608]

Great stuff mate. Some really great insights in that, with which I identified. Amazing how readily we become socially conditioned to think alcohol is a problem solver, rather than supplemental to the really important things.

[@Foxiz]

Good for you! I'm a sober alcoholic, and when I have failed and been drinking the occasional times, I realized that the feeling of the alcohol leaving the body, that makes you feel bad, actually happens on the way up too; when drinking to be drunk. That made it much easier to stay sober!

[@DahliaOlive]

Congratulations! 🎈🍾. (And now I want BBQ and beer, that sounds wonderful. Lol)

[@metaldragoon8556]

Good job man I’ve trying to do something similar but haven’t lasted as long so respect

[@therocinante3443]

I feel this man, I went ahead and decided to quit a week ago. It's slightly working. Lots of time in bed though

[@ricopaxton]

Quitting drinking AND smoking - buying gear might be the next drug, but it's way more fun, has value and stays longer! Had that experience myself, so, great for you, man! Be well, great album btw!

[@F4Wildcat]

140 ounces thats... 4.1 FRIKKING LITERS? Dude your kidneys must be the cleanest kidneys out there

[@BecomeTheKnight]

I was once the most hydrated man in Tennessee 😂

[@F4Wildcat]

@@BecomeTheKnight Make that the entire USA. Nearly choked in my coffee when i did the calculation of 140 ounces to liter. I have some american soda cans and i tought that would translate to 1.5 liter but man. You sir are a legend.

[@maninthecrowd5076]

It should be almost bleached by now with that much soda.

[@panterarocks9326]

I’m 20 years old, so not legal drinking age yet and I have NEVER even had a sip of alcohol before. I’ve been offered, but have always turned it down. Any time I tell people this, they are always so shocked. It’s crazy that alcohol is a thing that almost everybody has tried and had before even if they’re not 21 yet. That age doesn’t really matter for people. It just means they can’t buy it yet. So it’s just pretty crazy to me how influential alcohol can be in a negative way. Because with me not having a sip before, I might seem lame or uncool to people. So it’s just crazy to me how alcohol is viewed and stuff. I’m gonna try it when I am 21, but with a family full of alcoholics, I just don’t have the desire to do it heavily. Alcohol is a crazy thing that can do crazy things

[@BecomeTheKnight]

Canon g7x mkiii

[@dantee1138]

@Seth Ford I feel almost the same

[@michaelberresford4291]

Really proud of you bro, this is a huge challenge that a lot of people fail and you took it by the scruff of the neck and and powered through. I'm impressed.

[@rainemonet]

That’s wonderful Mike! You don’t know me but super happy and proud for you! 👍🏻❤️🤘🏻

[@VogonPoet67]

Glad to hear it. Think about all of the great musicians we lost over the last 50+ years because they never learned self-discipline with alcohol. How much great music would we have that we don't if they had learned that lesson.

[@rollastoney]

To your health, Mike. We are happy for you. Great accomplishment.

[@Smurf431]

OUTSTANDING video, Thank You for making it!

[@pepinlebref7585]

You can be proud of you. So many things in life are just a matter of will. Now the next step is to start working out!

[@taku1221]

big props to you man. im pretty new to drinking but it made me feel relieved to hear that you think alcohol is something to have to elevate the mood when youre already having fun. ive always seen alcohol like that so it gives me the relief that i wont make alcohol a habit

[@swingonthespiral]

Man, I congratulate you on this! I've been able to drink responsibly and most days not at all now and only binge on holidays a few times a year. I'm glad my psychology isn't wired to need alcohol, but what intrigues me more is your talk about cigarettes. I'm addicted too, mostly it's the nicotine in general. Any way I can get it. I'm fighting the addiction tooth and nail. Just went outside and smoked half of my last one and threw the other half away when I got the head rush. Went 24 hours without it and I was feeling the darkest depression return to me. I have determined that this addiction is preventing me from all forms of greatness in my life. When I'm smoking i feel content enough to not push forward, and when I'm not smoking I feel depressed enough to not want to get out of bed! I've cut back considerably and even the reduction has made me all the more productive. I'm trying to quit vapes too because I have permanent respiratory damage from them. I suggest you try and cut them out too because they are actually potentially dangerous. A burnt coil can go unnoticed and lead to lesions and burns in the throat, trachea, and lungs. Not to mention chronic bronchitis. I'm going to remember this video everytime I want to smoke and hope it gives me some strength. Wish you the best on your physical health journey!

[@bov3793]

Congrats mike. Seriously..hats off! You can be proud of yourself

[@johnnymittens77]

Here in the UK we've been in and out of Lockdown for the better part of 15 months, add to that starting a young family and being out of the house working for 12 hours, I got to the stage where I was coming in from work and instead of having a drink of water or squash, or tea, I'd be like "I'm thirsty, I'd better have a tall tumbler of Jack and coke" I was going through a bottle of bourbon every three days! Not touched a spirit since Christmas, I recognised that although it wasn't a problem at that point, it could very easily become one if I didn't take some sort of action. Kudos to you Mike ✊😎

[@Meeper2]

I'm proud of you man I'm actively trying to develop this habit in the first place by only really drinking once a month while this month was an exception it's still not a lot since it was one extra day but the main reason that I'm trying to avoid developing this habit is that I lost a uncle that I and my mother were very close to in 2014 just 20 days before Christmas and what took him was liver cancer and he was a heavy drinker and what took him out was he literally tried to drink himself to death on December 3rd when he was found on the floor in his house and the doctor gave my mom an explanation of his BAC and my mom was in disbelief since my uncle had told her that he gave up drinking months prior on December 4th he had a massive stroke and became brain dead and he passed away on December 5th and I found out after school when I got into my dads car and unironically enough it was a cold and cloudy day so I'm glad you stopped your unhealthy relationship with alcohol before it was too late because I already lost one person to alcohol I don't need to lose someone else because while we may not know each other personally I still enjoy watching your videos and us Pennsylvania boys have to look out for each other

[@monkeysweeperguitar]

Good for you, man! I quit drinking 5 years ago, after being a seriously heavy drinker. And I quit smoking cigarettes on February 8th. It’s such a huge personal win, isn’t it?

[@ptr_does_music7042]

Wow, I'm not even a regular drinker or anything, but what you said about being around people hit me pretty hard.. it just has always helped me break the awkwardness, I guess.

[@KarlMcMAn]

I quit drinking for about 10 years, I do drink again just not as much I was. But cigarettes.... idk I’d love to quit but those little bastards have been the toughest thing I have ever dealt with. So cheers to you!

[@spenkerdetanker9067]

I had the same kind of revelation around christmas but it was purely myself who made the choice. I'm glad for you mike and I hope you can keep it up!

[@vincetrujillojr510]

I'm proud of you, you curbed what could have been a very serious drinking problem if you let your bad habit persist. Thanks for talking about it too, it motivates others! BTW, that "hit" you speak of, is called a rush. It's what drug users seek too.

[@om617yota8]

Interesting video to watch from the perspective of someone who's not had a drop in their life. Thanks for doing this, and putting yourself out there. Well done.

[@017aqpqgqika9]

Congratulations man next time you do this it’ll be for a even longer amount of time \m/

[@CarlosMunoz-hw1zj]

Loved this video. Thank you for sharing what you've learned.

[@TomMilleyMusic]

Honestly, the way you talk about when you noticed your abuse when you had some again is similar to me and weed. I know it's not the same, but for me it's very similar in that I keep wanting to have that hit again and again...and then I'm going overboard, smoking all day, and eventually smoking more than an ounce in a week. Been on a weed break though for a month now, trying to go as long as I can and build better base routines in my life, get things in order in my life. I don't know if I'm done with weed for good, but it's nice being sober and I wanna ride that as long as I can. I have more energy and clarity of mind. There's downsides too, but I'm also more productive, if even just out of boredom lol. So overall I feel like it's for the better, at least right now. Been quitting smoking cigarettes as well, and I know what you mean when you found those smokes...it's tough man, it can have such a hold on you. Lucky for me I seem to be able to turn off and on drinking, though alcoholism is in my family. I guess it never made it's way to me, but my vice is smoking cigs and weed. But I'm getting older, and I need to think about my health and future. But congrats on your journey and I wish all the best to you in the future my dude.

[@doomsdaycce]

Big respects man, these demons are hard to kick. Personally, I'm just barely 18 and out of high school and for much of my high school years I consumed alcohol, nicotine products (mostly cigs), and some "tolerable" drugs. Currently off everything for about 3-4 months after a short alcohol relapse. Best of wishes for you to pursue healthier living, cheers 🤘🏻

[@SaltLakePrepper]

Great job man! Proud of you. I'm number one at work but feeling myself slipping. Getting older and just cant handle drinking 12 pack every 2 to three days like I use to. I need to become fast and light. you're video inspires me.

[@jonathannaughton8554]

This video means alot to me. I'm 2 and a half weeks sober, and everything you describe in this video is something I've experienced in that time

[@xdarckstrack45]

Hey man, I truly believe that your content improved A LOT since you stopped drinking. Ily

[@arianamoxieloving919]

Congratulations! Glad to hear about your rediscovery of self without a fog of daily alcohol habit. Thank you for sharing your path through withdrawel urges from nicotine and alcohol and insight into what lay at the mistaken reasoning behind your use at the core. Much continued success to you and enjoyment of a normal level of dopamine from things such as friends and music over the trap of the amped-up dopamine from alcohjol or additives in cigarettes that eventually gives way to ever-increased use from tolerance and chasing the original dopamine/pleasure hormone surge that son fades away as effect wears off and liver slowly fattens and hardens to a painful, poisoned death. So much healthier for people to relearn to enjoy life without mistaken belief alcohol is "needed" for them to have fun or to get through painful or stressful times, which always leads to this kind of energy (and wallet) draining habit. Very happy to hear you and your friend reassignedwhat I half-jokingly designate as "Satan's Sauce" to it's only rightful-for-health (moderate) place in your lives. Caution about substituting a lot of carbonated water-based drinks for alcohol is they leach calcium out of bones. Women especially need to be aware of that to avoid bone fractures that come from weak bones. Filtered, plain water becomes delicious without carbonationn effect after it's infused for at least a few hours with slices of cucumber that also benefits body in other ways, especially skin, or sprig of fresh mint (with or without a bit of honey added to water) or your favorite sliced fruits. Just float whatever solo or combination items you prefer in filtered water in a large (covered) jar or pitcher in refridgerator overnight or a few hours. Your wallet will grow fatter annd bones don't lose their crucial calcium ... I just learned that the hard way, breaking a kneecap that might not have fractured if I hadn't been drinking cases of satisfyingly fizzy mineral and sparkling waters : )

[@j.scottvanlester4584]

When I quit drinking I didn't tell anyone and just started drinking cola in short glasses with ice. Everyone just assumed I was slamming rum and coke after rum and coke. I heard "Wow you can really handle your liquor" alot. It takes about 2 weeks for you to get over the hump, and about 2 years before you body really resets. Keep up the good work! Everybody has to sober up sooner or later.

[@jeremydanchuk1897]

Way to go Mike, it is great that you have a plan for when you start drinking again, I think that is the downfall of many people

[@sauceobtainer2849]

I always find addiction videos of any kind very interesting. They’re very personal and no one has to share their stories but when they do they’re very inspiring and remind you not to get involved in any way

[@daltron3182]

Good for you man glad to see you working on you