The Surprising Results Of 6 Months Without Alcohol - Mike Thurston

[@ChrisWillx]

Hello you beauties. Watch the full episode with Mike here - kzbin.info/www/bejne/rmjRp4Bmo5yjjcU

[@blustem1]

I come to Austin 1-2 weeks out of the month. I basically stopped drinking recently however when I come to Austin, I blow it out once, maybe twice. How do you live there and not drink.... Impressive.

[@andrewphillips9364]

I’m teetotal and love going to Ibiza to all the clubs and events 🎉 gave up years ago and never looked back ❤

[@nate687]

Really love your point Chris about “If you need to drink to enjoy your nights out, you are choosing the wrong nights out” spot on

[@NelsonComedy96]

Christ, sober people really are the most judgemental people around. So what if someone wants to have a few drinks on a Saturday night?

[@DrBased123]

@@NelsonComedy96I agree. It's not that you need a drink to enjoy yourself but it does make it at least twice as good. I understand quitting as you age but when you're young you should bounce back instantly anyway provided you are in good shape.

[@JCrashB]

Today I'm 909 days sober. I was a functioning alcoholic until October 1st 2020. Quit cold turkey. Haven't looked back. Good luck and strength to all strugglers out there. You can make it!

[@jeffringer7527]

I was a high functioning alcoholic as well. It will be 5 years August 17th since I confronted my alcoholism. For me 2018 was one of my most successful years in business but I was tired of always thinking about drinking. Now I consider myself a recovered alcoholic. I am at peace with the fact I can never drink again. I am simply not strong enough to drink like a normal person.

[@JCrashB]

@@jeffringer7527 Same with me. As soon as I'd start again, over time I'd lose control. Therefore I just don't drink anymore. I remain an alcoholic nonetheless for the rest of my life. It's really a drug from hell. And it's legal, that's the worst part.

[@whereeaglesdare9584]

Quitting cold turkey is harder than quitting wild turkey.

[@SupaHoon]

Quitting cold Turkey can kill you

[@jeffringer7527]

@@JCrashB What helped me was telling all my family and friends I’m an alcoholic . I told them I needed their support. They’ve all been great and never ask me to drink and wouldn’t let me if I tried. I not embarrassed to say I’m an alcoholic. It would be more embarrassing to flush my life down the toilet. If people think less of me I couldn’t possibly care less. Stay strong and just remember you are not a slave to the bottle.

[@ZlySabaku]

220 days sober today. Remember watching Chris' 1000 days no alocohol video at the beginning. It was one of the things that inspired me to do this. Changed a lot, love every single day

[@jamesdemile4181]

How you doing now??

[@SolvingTheMoneyProblem]

A few years ago I participated in 4 Ayahuasca ceremonies in the jungles of Peru. Though it was NOT my intent, I have not had a drink since. My first ceremony was an eternal hellscape with one message: you can either be a drinker, or fulfill your potential. Pick one. Prior to that I drank very regularly (always socially). Now, I can't stomach the idea of drinking. Unexpected outcome, but I'll take it. Life has never been better, I've never been happier, healthier, more fulfilled etc.

[@krissylamascus4484]

I feel I’ve come to a cross roads as well. Either drink or live up to your potential. Easy choice!

[@rasulbogdan6639]

The Ayahuasca journey... thats no easy task..

[@ultrapiscine]

Not drinking, being healthy, gym life, feeling good etc has hit critical mass. God knows I needed that to happen.

[@MysteryBounty]

That's great! I was working out daily, losing weight and feeling great but the last 6 months I fell off, started drinking more and more and recently realized I've become drinking almost daily. I've realized I have a problem so been watching videos like this, I know I need to get on my workouts and live a healthier life in general. I know what I need to do so here's hoping I can do it but people like you are inspiring me to push forward.

[@AskJeeves572]

​@@MysteryBountyI hope everything is going well mate. I'm a functioning alcoholic I'd say. I go to the gym 2-4 times a week and my gains have been on hold for a while because of drink. So I need to stop too. I hope you're doing well

[@MysteryBounty]

@AskJeeves572 I really appreciate that brother! Day 63 I'm doing great! Gotten back into my workouts, losing fat and building muscle and feeling overall better, I am not saying I won't drink again but I don't need it to have fun and feel like it was very detrimental to my health so until I get my weight/health under control I'm off of it. It felt for awhile there like I needed alcohol or weed to have fun but I realize over the last couple months that I can have plenty of fun without it

[@pamelafletcher3506]

@@MysteryBounty

[@dannygreen5968]

@@MysteryBountyI’ve arrived at the same point as this. Can’t believe how much worse I’ve felt. Currently getting straight back into the gym and taking back control! 👍🏻

[@turbdonkey]

I've never met a sober person who regretted giving up drinking...including myself.

[@littlebilly8747]

You never will

[@HoneyBunRoad]

FACTS

[@NickMart1985]

The most remarkable part is how normal social events feel. The booze contributed nothing! I was so convinced the booze "lubricated" the environment. It was all a lie.

[@arjungupta3095]

Facts

[@NganKriete]

@@ThaLatePizzaBoi how vapid can one be, perhaps they struggled before… like alcoholics do…

[@Wolfenstein69924]

As of now I made it to 80 days without a drink. I have been tempted but for the most part my friends have been really supportive. My mental health and sleep also improved.

[@photonfitness7244]

The Sinclair Method. Claudia Christian has a Ted talk KZbin video of her experience using it, and how it cured her alcohol use disorder.

[@Harrymaguireisthegoatoffootbal]

Keep going pal, every day it gets easier and better

[@ap5194]

I quit drinking alcohol on Christmas day 2018 because exactly what Mike described. When you're in your 30s hangovers last for days not hours, lifes too short to hate yourself 50% of the week

[@jamiestwrt]

Agreed

[@BradRae188]

Try your 50’s🙈

[@jr5993]

Try before 20 if you are speedrunning alcoholism 😂. Seriously though I did wet January this month and I'm ready to quit. I've said this several times now though.

[@MrSplcrazy]

I'm in my 40s and don't even get hangovers. I really limit my nights out but feel staying really hydrated on the night out is key. One glass of water for every alcoholic drink for me.

[@ap5194]

@@MrSplcrazy sounds like a boring nightout that

[@Mochagrim]

You guys hit so many points that I’ve been thinking about lately. Turned 25 a few months ago and I usually drink atleast one night on weekends since my teens. I am starting to realize how confident and comfortable I am with myself and talking to others being sober. My sober charisma is soo much better.

[@MVProfits]

By drinking just at parties, I become more social and all, and then I was able to keep that anytime afterwards, just like you did. It served a purpose but it can't become a crutch as then you get way more bad than the good.

[@WokeAFMillennial]

Andrew Huberman podcast on alcohol 100% changed my perspective on me even thinking that being a "weekend drinker" was fine. I quit IMMEDIATELY after viewing that podcast and feel GREAT every single Saturday morning! Watch that podcast in it's entirety and you'll likely see why your thinking is indoctrination and was incorrect all along. The facts were 100% what made it easy for me to quit.

[@LiamWhelanPT]

Sobriety should be talked about much more. This is a very good topic Chris & Mike! I have got ADHD, and alcohol triggers more than just dopamine. It’s either no beer, or a full blown bender and no sleep, sadly. I don’t look down on people who drink, but those who will enjoy a better ‘real’ life. Great content 🤝

[@greed6is6good]

2:20 i also like myself better as a person when im sober. Im compassionate, more kind, have more patience , i joke around, etc. I wont let alcohol destroy the person who i truly am

[@MelonGearSolid]

It's all about culture. As a Scot, every time I'm out with friends whilst not drinking the question is always "why aren't you drinking?" And it's sad that I feel like I need to justify it. My friend that has Crohn's disease gets the same question and he answers about his condition, then the subject is dropped. If I say "I just don't drink" it's then the follow up questions. One would hope the culture could change, but not a chance in hell up here.

[@alang8243]

In my state in the US, there is also a heavy drinking culture. Hang in there man! I honestly think the culture is changing all over. Too many benefits of not drinking…It will never be the status quo to not drink in our lifetime, but it will become less and less common for everyone to drink heavily. The negative health effects are just too profound.

[@SilverHawk214]

I was a bartender until the dreaded 2020 incident. I didn't drink and got question about it often. My answer never wavered though. "I don't want to." Never overexplain.

[@peripheralparadox4218]

I met a Scot who doesn’t drink once.

[@Browny84]

Australia is the same. They’re like, “why aren’t you drinking? What’s wrong with you?” I point it back at them. “Why are you drinking? If your life was so great, surely you could go a night without getting hammered, but I’m the one with a problem.” Drinking just makes mediocrity more tolerable.

[@colin6673]

Same here in Ireland. Annoying as fuck

[@sosa2845]

I’m going through this right now. Not enjoying drinking anymore and hate the feeling of being drunk. Hanging out with people that drink often is tough but that’s where discipline comes into play. I honestly don’t understand why i use to drink often. I think having something to look forward to and having goals makes drinking seem pointless.

[@farcanaussie]

Just because you don't enjoy something now doesn't mean it wasn't enjoyable at the time. You don't play with the same toys as when you were a kid. Humans evolve and change. Probably not worth thinking about "why did I drink" - if it was enjoyable at the time then great. If it's not now then that's great too and you can put that energy into other interests.

[@Komatik_]

The one trouble for me is that most nonalcoholic options are very one-note and dull in terms of taste: Aging alcohol really does do wonders in producing interesting drinks. Switched to lighter alcohol, and the permanent clear headedness from consuming slower's been amazing. The taste is great, but being properly drunk's not enjoyable anymore.

[@jeffdoyle]

@@Komatik_the peroni non alcoholic is probably the nicest one I’ve had

[@Wonderish403]

Just over 12 years sober. Best thing I ever did for myself. I drank heavily from 13 to 33. I love that there's cool sober people for young men and women to look up to, now. Alcohol is ridiculous.

[@fucuszullanti7877]

Yeah quitting before it was cool to quit. People who defend alcohol are in denial, I could go the rest of my life without it and not even blink

[@dusjon]

Getting hammered once a month is fun, its all about moderation

[@farcanaussie]

@@fucuszullanti7877 Each to their own

[@jr5993]

​@fucuszullanti7877 I honestly don't know how people make it so far drinking alcahol. Like I hear people say they drank from 18 to 35. I'm nearly 20 and only started drinking properly at 18 and I'm ready to quit 😂.

[@jr5993]

​@Ventryx no way. Once a month does not make you an alcoholic. But hearing you say that does make me feel better about stopping. I did wet January and I drank almost every day this month.

[@Bats-7]

I actually gave up drinking alcohol mainly because I suffer with IBS & Alcohol is one of my triggers, it’s only when I stopped I realise that 1. I didn’t need it 2. I didn’t like it 3. I only drank to fit in socially 4. To cope with anxiety & shyness ….. 7 years later & I still don’t drink alcohol & I love it 👍

[@chymarsowell]

Love it

[@Jd36714]

I relate

[@Lone_Star86]

Same. I'm trying to quit. Has your IBS got better

[@Bats-7]

@@Lone_Star86 it has improved a lot over the years, thank you for asking! 👍

[@TcGroenestege]

Literally having IBS aswell and realised the exact same reasons here, thats funny xD

[@LifewithRickToledo]

Great Interview - I saved so much money not drinking every day like i used too. Now im able to do more for myself and family financially as well as mentally.

[@justinthematrix]

“I like the reality I’m in now” wow that one is so true

[@_johnnys_life]

Love this! Im 36 now and had troubles with Alcohol in the past. I am the same as I dont like how alcohol makes me feel anymore. I also don't have time to be hungover! Great chat!

[@bradleyapps2304]

Did 3 months recently, then got back on the beers for the last 8-10weeks. Back to day one today. The benefits of not drinking much out way the fun/ social acceptance of drinking. Bring on the energy and focus!

[@umaodihirin5879]

Chris' point at 8:45 is completely spot on and it made me realize that that is EXACTLY what I do when I go out. I do this to cope with social anxiety and thinking sober me wouldn't be good to be around in these scenarios. Amazing video, thanks so much for sharing. Definitely have to watch the full episode

[@TheRealJonster]

35 now, haven't been drunk since I was 30. I made the decision to stop getting drunk when going out, because it seemed my hangovers were simply getting worse (with age), and it's definitely not something I miss! I'll have some drinks during celebrations or big events, sure, but once I feel even slightly tipsy -- I stop and I go on the water wagon for the rest of the night.

[@SKALLYWAG_Official]

Well done mate I'm 34 and IV fucked my life lost Mrs and kids n home on Xmas day wish I did what u did

[@TheRealJonster]

@@SKALLYWAG_Official That's brutal brother.. I'm sorry to hear this. Only if you quit drinking will turn things around again I believe. I hope you can find the willpower to overcome your trials and tribulations; we all have our vices and demons to battle

[@jr5993]

​@skallywag1982 geeze that' s tough. Hope you're doing good now. I'm nearly 20 and I'm already considering quitting

[@thekeith1221]

I agree wholeheartedly. But you are both saying this in retrospect after having gotten these experiences out of your system, and no doubt have some great memories from such occasions.

[@LennonZA]

I'm convinced that this conversation is not possible without having drank to excess in your teens and twenties. I know many people my age and older that still blow-out every weekend, which is fine, however this form of clarity can only be achieved with a certain level of maturity and self-awareness.

[@SUPREMELEADERSPUNCHBAWB]

I have stopped drinking for a few weeks. I was starting to drink almost every night where I did not have to wake up early the next morning. I saw myself being pulled into alcoholism; stop before it becomes very hard not to drink.

[@photonfitness7244]

The Sinclair Method. Claudia Christian has a Ted talk KZbin video of her experience using it, and how it cured her alcohol use disorder.

[@shaneroberts2492]

I’m currently witnessing my dad disintegrate from alcohol induced liver disease. It’s hard to witness but he made his life choices and is now unfortunately paying the price, I know in moderation you will be fine but it’s definitely changed my relationship with drink. I don’t want my son to see me going out like that.

[@Simon1985_]

Lost two ex partners to alcohol. 16 August 2021 - aged 38 30 June 2023 - aged 36 I’m now in my 17th day sober and don’t plan on returning to drinking. I understand why your attitude to alcohol has changed because mine certainly has as well.

[@Nap_ster9]

45 days sober here ⚡️ Never felt better in a decade Im 27 training for my first amateur fight 🏆 Stay strong lads, we got this 🤌🏻🤝🏻🧿

[@johnaherne1789]

Best of luck mma or boxing

[@Nap_ster9]

@@johnaherne1789 MMA mate :D but I also practice a tonne of boxing, so defo it is one of my base... 3 months sober :D lfg

[@GRUMPNUGS]

Did you have the fight yet? 8 years ago I started MMA for a couple years. A few of us went out for a guys birthday one night knowing we had training next day. The sessions are 3 hours, we had a 2 mile run warm up, 1.5 hour circuit, followed by an hour rolling. It was disgusting, still remember it. A couple of us vomited 😂, so wasn't worth it.

[@xgtwb6473]

For any addict this is the way. You don't need to have a fight but start Muay thai or BJJ and do it 5-6 days a week. We are endorphine junkies. We have to replace the extreme of drugs with insane cardio. 😂

[@krakusanna18]

Checking on you mate, still sober?

[@GayFrogsTho]

I quit drinking over two years ago. One of the best things I've ever done.

[@affirmed_7835]

Feels good to feel good in the morning.

[@chowderfaceable]

This dialogue made me realize that whenever I drink it is socially and that is now seldomly, yet I still drink and not because I like to drink but because of my insecurities. Thank you.

[@charlieboylol527]

I hope your ok 🙏

[@chrisgreen7194]

I’m on 3 months sober :) and the comment on positives and negatives is so true.

[@kathleenkaleookalanismith8724]

I never liked the idea of getting my happiness from anything outside of myself which is my only reason for not drinking lol. I love your post 🌺

[@bm5_5_5]

Love this for you! You’re very wise. I’ve just wised up to this now.

[@kathleenkaleookalanismith8724]

@@bm5_5_5 you’re sweet! I’m happy for you too!! Big hugs ✌️😄

[@latecheckout11]

​@@kathleenkaleookalanismith8724 if only more people understood that.

[@bayefoil940]

Wish I learned this earlier. This is especially true for using drugs to cope.

[@kathleenkaleookalanismith8724]

@@bayefoil940 better a little late than never. 💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕

[@Eric_Luke]

When I learned that alcohol is an anesthetic and numbs your sense of reality, I thought - why would I want to numb my reality? Especially since I spent so much effort making my reality truly enjoyable & rewarding. I've since given up drinking and find that I can be more present, have better conversation, and more fully appreciate everything in life. If you find you can't give up drinking, ask yourself what kind of reality you'd enjoy sober - then work towards that.

[@alexp7274]

I lost my 17 year marriage due to my wife's alcoholism. The family unit that I cherished to always have and my now 9 year old daughter were the collateral damage. An otherwise potentially happy and beautiful life was destroyed because of it. I am now a single dad in his fifties trying to navigate a new world.

[@tukkajumala]

Sorry for your loss man. Did you ever find out why she drank?

[@alexp7274]

@@tukkajumala Some was genetics (her dad was an alcoholic). Social anxiety was another reason that she always brought up. I tried to help by supporting her, therapy, etc. but after five years I realized that not me, nor anyone else, is equipped to save someone from their internal demons. Only they can do that. I wouldn't wish the effects of it and the profound sense of loss on my worst enemy.

[@tukkajumala]

@@alexp7274 Yeah, we can not really change other people. We can sometimes influence them, but we can not command a change. What I have discovered through my marriage and my kids is that the only way to change others is to change myself. If I ever wish to even hope that someone close to me changes their behavior, I always need to take good long looks at the mirror. I have to be honest to myself, see where my own failures lie and start working on sorting myself out. Only then I might hope to see changes around me. It is hard work and it demands blind faith that as I improve, someone close to me may have room to improve as well. In the end I never get exactly what I want, but I always get what I need.

[@photonfitness7244]

The Sinclair Method. Claudia Christian has a Ted talk KZbin video of her experience using it, and how it cured her alcohol use disorder.

[@ac-gp3kz]

​@@alexp7274 I've had a similar experience with a drug addicted family member. For 4 or 5 years our lives were turned upside down and drove us to the edge trying to cope with it. Sometimes you have to walk away for the sake of your own sanity but it's heartbreaking. I wish you all the best mate.

[@ZolaBabee]

“Nothing is hard when you set your mind to it” that’s a quote I’m saying to my self one month from now when I become sober.

[@Ramen4mwah]

3 months alcohol free today. 24m and loving it. I don’t miss being to hungover to work on Mondays, not remembering the weekends, blowing all my money on food and drinks, saying shit I’d never say sober, not exercising, not eating well, insomnia, impending sense of doom with a side of depression for days after drinking.. yeah I don’t miss any of that. Now I’m workin 40 hours a week, working out 4 hours a week, I’m fit and love the way that I look and feel, there’s clarity, I’m witty, I make people laugh again, I’m me again. Fk alcohol.

[@psevant1]

Nice job!

[@Komatik_]

Love the taste of alcoholic drinks - most nonalcoholics are way too one-note - but damn sure lost the taste for being blitzed. Would much rather drink slow enough for my body to process it properly, if at all.

[@colinarmstrong7775]

Thanks

[@nathanosterhaus]

Aw man, growing up in Wisconsin, where drinking culture is rampant, drunk driving was like an Olympic sport. Friends would say, "but you only had 4 pints. you can still drive."

[@trel9388]

wisconsinite here, it's all we look forward to doing and the main suggestion when getting together with people

[@johenderson3742]

My friend was drunk driving and was pulled over by police. They opened his door and he promptly fell out onto the road. He was lucky it was late 1980's and the cop let him drive the few last feet to his home!

[@mrobby1823]

Hahaha Jesus crazy how I used to justify that too

[@themoneyman8011]

I gave up drinking for four months last year and felt amazing. However, I fell back into it. Now I am five weeks sober and I won't be regressing this time. The trick is to find out what psychological need is being met by alcohol and deal with that need in a non-destructive manner so that alcohol is no longer needed.

[@METAL__MECHANIC]

Went 3 months end of last year and also felt great, looked way better, then fell right back into the trap during new years. Been drinking regularly since then. Feel like crap, gained like 15lbs back. Not sure why I keep doing this to myself. Time to give it up for good.

[@heatherberry01]

I’m a month and 5 days sober…not because I have a problem but for fitness and health reasons. I’m more mindful of my food choices and just giving my body a break is my intention. My goal is 6 months. I’m not going to completely quit after my goal. I will for a special occasions and most definitely in moderation. 😌

[@dwini00]

My two absolute favourite creators. I can’t tell you how excited I’ve been for this video! If you guys made a 10 hour podcast, I’d be watching it straight 💪 keep up the great work gents

[@hannahdreyfuss7120]

Pretty rad this is becoming more mainstream 💪🏻🙌🏻💛. Right on both of you

[@bossman674]

I’ve always had a perfectly healthy relationship with alcohol, and even then, I’ve always wondered why I ever started drinking… I barely drink as it is, but there’s a small voice in my head that tells me to just completely stop.

[@adamcossins7920]

Glad I came across this video today. I’ve only drank in 4 occasions this year, which is very unlike myself. I’ve found that being practically sober has given almost a sense of freedom (how it feels anyway). I wake up early in the mornings just ready to go, I feel like I’m slowly starting to make the right steps towards achieving my goals, and the idea of even being drunk is just a nightmare scenario for me. There’s absolutely 0 positives to being intoxicated imo. Now I’m not saying that going for a drink w your partner/mates/family etc makes you a bad person or anything along that line, but for myself I just feel that being intoxicated has 0 benefit on my life so why out myself through that

[@adamcossins7920]

I have also found that since stopping going on nights out, a lot of people I would consider friends have seemed to disappear from my life. I felt shit about this for a while but it’s dawned on me that this is the best case scenario, maybe I don’t need those people in my life.

[@greencrocidile6246]

Bro I thought these guys were the same person

[@Boog8]

Same lmao

[@kuna209]

Lol I used to think that too 😊

[@Khp1983]

They are bro..!! Look again !

[@cloroc]

Lol they are

[@PrvnCoke]

Its just edited, he talks to himself

[@justinthematrix]

40 days today. Feel better than I have in years. Combined with exercise it’s the truth!

[@robscragga]

I needed to hear this today. I don’t think I’m a full blown alcoholic, but I’ve definitely got a problem. I recently did 12 months and I felt great. But there lays the problem, I gave myself a short time frame, then got back on it. I didn’t hit it hard, but I definitely started putting on weight and I noticed the problems rising again. I felt so guilty. I felt like I failed my family. Chris, I remember you saying you did 1000 days. About a week ago I had a Ironman race that went dreadfully, and I said that’s it, no more. I’m doing 1000 days.

[@wrighs12]

Nice job man I’ve done two Ironmans and felt similar. Had I not been drinking leading up to it my performance would’ve been better. Good luck!

[@deepstriker]

Congrats on the 12 months man

[@robscragga]

@@wrighs12 yeah, i definitely screwed my chances on this last race cause I couldn’t stop drinking. My race before that once went great cause I wasn’t drinking

[@robscragga]

@@deepstriker thanks. Felt like I wasted and fucked it all up cause I got back on it. But now, I’m going sober again.

[@keykeyjean2003]

Hope it's going well brother.

[@yessi1585]

Wow this is amazing. I go out once on a Saturday every few weeks and I love it! Getting hammered and a having a laugh with your friends is great fun

[@Kinesiology411]

Having a laugh sober is actually more fun than that.

[@Pete22222]

I’m in my 50s and haven’t had a drop of alcohol since I was 24. I don’t miss it. I never liked it when I was drinking. Hated how I felt when I was buzzed or drunk. I only drank because it was what my friends were doing, and after a really heavy night I just decided no more. Never regretted that decision and I’m actually really happy I have stayed absolutely firm with that resolution. I’ve watched too many lives get completely torn apart by alcohol.

[@MrElectricSkittles]

I think it's pretty simple.. People are more educated than ever on how bad it is, and, it's super expensive in a world where people are trying to spend more wisely

[@johenderson3742]

I think people just can't afford to go out and drink anymore...which leads to staying home and drinking in isolation!😮

[@OfWodensFolk]

I'm 16 days sober and already sleeping better for it. I had a pretty rough end of the year, lost my job and my partner is now totally estranged because I was self medicating with booze and it's spilled over. She's now keeping me at arms length and it looks like I've lost her this time due to circumstances out of my control. I'll never learn to not drink and be angry/emotionally unbalanced, so I've decided to not drink again after 30 years on and off. Was never a big problem but its caused more trouble then its worth and I've got to try and recover my girl because I'm not letting 6 years go down the pan.

[@durcell123]

Ive trappered backa ton , working out/ job/ and not waking up with zero hangover is awesome. I just remembered that feeling of that and the liquor store what its going to bring in morning!! plus the money saved.

[@m.d.atkinson6975]

I was a functioning alcoholic for 14 years. Too many stories for the comments 😂 I quit in 2016 for almost 3 years, relapsing at the end of 2018, but now Im up 2 years again without a drink. Ultimately, it was cannabis that turned it around for me, which I'm not saying is the right for everyone, but it was for me. Sending good vibes to those still going through the struggle. 🙏

[@Born2EditHD]

As someone who has never drank, this was interesting to hear. I've always envied people that drink and now I'm thinking that maybe I made the right choice

[@Kungfulu77]

Sober since 2017 never regretted giving up. It wasnt working for me and I wasted so much time drunk or hungover. No way to enjoy this one life! You do have to get to like yourself. I drank to escape my own self... Takes some adjustment but so worth it.

[@berkenart7321]

Trauma causes addiction. People who just go back to drinking even though they actually want to quit have unresolved shit. I don't drink anymore and really don't want to drink because I am healed from my childhood trauma. I don't know how exactly it happened, just try to do the right thing. Exercise and healthy life style and shit. They help.

[@Plough78]

How did you get "healed" CBT...? I need to do something to resolve issues from past.. Just dunno what to do... *Crap Game*

[@nelsonlin9946]

Cannot believe both of yous are from Newcastle Uni !! I am a recent graduate from Newcastle Uni and been sober for more than a year from alcohol.

[@2Cheap4society]

My brother works for a beer distributor in St Paul minnesota, he says the younger people generally do not drink alcohol.

[@danielmurray9820]

It is so strange , there are so many things we do to optimise performance, nootropics, ice baths, meditation practices and apps…. But one things that massively improves energy, libido , clarity , an endless list … we often don’t let quitting drinking on our radar. I wonder if we spoke differently would that change … like instead of “ah yeah, I have a glass of wine some evenings just to unwind “we said “ I drink most of a bottle of wine , often the whole bottle at least 3 nights a week to help with anxiety and feeling lonely “ “I like to go out drink from time to time “ to “I feel the need to drink regularly and usually over 5 drinks” … “I sometimes have a glass or two of wine watching a movie “ to “ I find I don’t enjoy being by myself with a movie unless I have a bottle of wine with it” …. “A cheeky pint “ to “drinking to intoxicate myself when I had planned not to “ … “a little drinkie “ to “ a bottle of wine “ … “a couple of beers now and then “ to “ drinking over 6 pints regularly “ … if we called things as they are it would change our view. Even just getting the amount right, a couple and a few, how often are they actually 2 or 3 ? Now and again …. How often is that 2 or 3 times a week? … drinkie , scoop, cheeky one , the cutezy terms … do they hide something from us ourselves ?

[@11nica5]

They don’t call alcohol a Spirit for nothing. It’s a portal for lesser beings that take hold of your body & mind. It makes you do, think, act and feel in ways you never would if you’re in a pure form.

[@DrBased123]

Speak for yourself. It just exemplifies yourself more. If you're a sad or aggressive person then that will come out. If you're happy or kind you will be even more.

[@lilyb2617]

I went for dinner Friday night - food and wine. Saturday comedy show - pub - wine. I said to my BF the next day I am so over this lifestyle. The pub had too many drunk people and it’s the first time I just felt this isn’t giving me anything back. I’d rather be waking up fresh, going for a hike or being away on a weekend of active adventure. My fun no longer comes from alcohol. I fear I will have to move away from those who still want this lifestyle. I feel I’m onto my next chapter, it’s the only way I can describe it. Like I’ve woken up asking why? Very inspiring to hear I’m not ‘the boring one’ as those who still want to drink label me when I tell them I don’t want this anymore.

[@johenderson3742]

Agree that you can't hang out with drinkers anymore.

[@paulsheridan7408]

105 days dry. Life is hard, but it’s so much easier with more time, energy, mental clarity and money. The thought of a hangover terrified me!!

[@malvoduma7826]

I’m literally going through the same exact process and I feel really good

[@Quad038]

There’s things that taste better, will leave you feeling better and cost less. So why bother? Stop worrying about peer pressure or feeling left out. Do what’s good for you, your body, health, life, when possible.

[@LONEWOLF..314-S-T-L]

GREAT TALKING POINTS 👍🏾💯 .. 6 YEARS SOBER NOW MYSELF.

[@GreyMatterShades]

I wonder how much the trend of younger people drinking less (if at all) is driven by the proliferation of smart phones and social media. In the modern environment I could see the idea of being out of control in public being terrifying because if you say or do something profoundly stupid or embarrassing (as many of us have countless times while drunk), everyone around you would be able to capture that moment and it could live forever online.

[@sponkmcdonk3898]

It’s one addiction switched for another. Getting drunk on clout

[@johenderson3742]

OMG I am SO glad there were no smart phones around when I was younger and doing idiotic things! Someone once suggested filming myself when drunk and watching it the next day to help me stop drinking...but I had no cam corder so I continued...

[@namontn]

After years of hangovers, DUI's and black outs, I'm 41 years old and I haven't had a drop in almost four years.

[@Krisztus1Haver]

I was drinking for 16 years. Now im sober for 1.5 years. No shakes, no urges, no pressure. But I remind myself about what I was every single FUCKING day. Alcoholic Anonymous got me trough and thought me how to be better. If you have the sickness go and sit trough a meeting. They made me stop drinking after my second meeting.

[@jamesfitzgerald4419]

Great video. Gladded i watched it. To be honest, I only clicked on the link to see if anyone else commented on the irony of a guy named, "Thurston" discussing the benefits of sobriety.

[@eggxit5418]

Im 21 and don’t drink a drop of alcohol. Most of my friends drink and literally tell me they wish they were like me and look up to me for it. It’s more than acceptable to not drink as a young person nowadays, it’s inspiring.

[@dietisgreat]

Do you want a trophy

[@angmaugeri]

that day is coming lol. never say never...

[@ramzanb6863]

It seems to be primarily for cultural and social reasons people end up down the road of drinking. Those specifically who become dependent on alcohol often have accompanying risk factors for addiction e.g. psychiatric issues, social problems or family history of addiction. As a doctor (and someone who has essentially never drank alcohol) I see the consequences of alcohol every day and it’s pretty grim. It has no health benefit and the social component of alcohol doesn’t have to be status quo. There are plenty of people and societies who don’t drink . My wife is an Indonesian, the largest Muslim country in the world and it is a very social, warm and collective society where the vast bulk of people do not drink and yet probably have more close friends than the average person in the West. I think it’s so empowering and inspiring to see people who have grown up surrounded by alcohol quit. You are strong and should be ever so proud of the journey you’re on.

[@Micolashcage1]

One thing ive noticed about quitting alcohol that you need to be careful about is that you’re likely to replace it with another vice: one Ive seen being common is sex. And yes that can be an addiction too… a detrimental one. Especially if you are in the fitness community, where a big by product of your hard work is romantic attention

[@MisterL777]

You guys are getting romantic attention?

[@huggybear2789]

​@@ooooooooppps Lol! That sounds par for the course.😅

[@Jimlifts1]

@@ooooooooppps lmao yep

[@JoeCool0510]

I think this really says alot about British alcohol culture, as well as how you are raised. I was raised in a dry household, and the faith community I grew up in did not condone the use of alcohol or tobacco. Then I attended a small college that was a dry campus. So I never felt compelled to drink. I have had alcohol in the past, but the last bottle of beer I drank was in July of 2022. And I don't miss it or crave it. It just strikes me as funny that these nice guys (and yes I think they're nice people truly) have gone sober and are extolling the superpowers of being sober as if it's the the 'new thing', when in reality many people have never drank alcohol all through history (for a British example think of the Quakers).

[@PanHaszaman]

It's stunning to me, that guys like these two could ever be so insecure/shy in their past. Naturally I would assume they have it all sorted out, because of their looks. It makes me change my own self esteem a little bit, because it shows how many of us fall into that trap of self doubt and introverted mindset.

[@programclu1]

Nearly everyone is insecure etc dude, especially the ones who seem to have it all! It's really hard to remember that though. We're all just walking about worrying about our place in it all.

[@Kc-cd3tr]

still blows my mind that spending £100 in a pub and getting absolutely fucked up is completely normal but having a joint or just chilling sober etc is completely frowned upon and mocked. such a backwards society

[@littlebilly8747]

Even small drinks get me lethargic and give me massive headaches. Plus almost all of it tastes like battery acid. I plan to never drink again (it’s been almost a year since my last drink, and I don’t miss it AT ALL)

[@rodb66]

I used to be a huge drinker from my teenage years through my early 30s. I tapered it down when I married and had a family to occasional drinking. Even with occasional drinking, I couldn't limit myself. I no longer like how I felt after drinking and looking forward to sobering up. I decided to do dry January and never looked back. Now I'm 68 days alcohol free. I'm 57 going on 58 and I just regret I didn't start this when I was born much younger.

[@brushstroke3733]

I just started drinking again after 2.5 years sober. Also started smoking cigarettes again. The two are linked. Wish me luck that I can stop again or at least use in moderation. I know part of it is that I have no social life and no friends. After a while, I just missed my "friends": beer, weed, and cigarettes. They make me feel sick and tired, but also interested in what I'm doing again.

[@nomadic_orthodox]

No alcohol since 2017, not even in sweets, and no interest in ever drinking again. Banned it completely from my house and family.

[@hissingoose]

This is neat because i decided to severely restrict alcohol consumption; used to have 3-4 drinks per day, down to about 1-2 per week and sometimes nothing. been at it two months; I feel better and look better already.

[@Plough78]

After 30 years being a hardcore drunkard quitting has left me with a huge hole in my life... Despite that it's better than drinking *Crap Game*

[@Demondoink1]

I quit drinking after a night out for new year (so the beginning of 2019) aged 25. I wasn’t an alcoholic by any means but I’d get really bad hangovers etc. When I was on holiday during Summer of that year I went for a night out with my friend and drank again. I didn’t enjoy it, and that’s the last time I touched alcohol. Almost four years sober and over six years being Vegan. Just do what makes you feel healthy and don’t worry about other peoples opinions.

[@hinterlandrider5300]

I stopped drinking for 3 months, I was hell bored and really didn't feel physically any better. Sometimes I wonder if the sober crew over exaggerate how 'amazing' they feel. I usually have 2 beers a day.

[@rigobertoornelas289]

I hear you . I’m a week sober and the Bored feeling of not having a drink is a bit off . I drink a 350ml of vodka a night before stopping.

[@Harvey2Tall]

I quit drinking three months ago. Dont miss it at all and feel way better.

[@BGborda]

Life is so good sober

[@vanmarko6654]

18 years Sober,never give up there's no hopless cases 💪🙏🙌

[@jareemack8939]

Quit drinking and lost 20 pounds in a month in a half. Realized alcohol was literally making me binge eat to satisfy my stomach so I didn’t get sick, because I was drinking 2 beers a day. I was in the Marines at one point where we drink pretty heavy, so leaving the Marine Corps I still drank but just cut it down. So I thought 2 beers was like nothing. Not drinking made me realize this was not normal and I saw my appetite was much smaller when sober and I didn’t have the cravings I used to have or eat bullsh**. Now. It’s made losing weight so much easier and my brain feels so clear. Honestly not drinking again unless it’s a celebration like stated in video. Feel more like myself than i have felt in years.

[@ceedub_1983]

I’m on day 64 of quitting booze and cigs and it’s the BEST decision I ever made in my life 💪🏻

[@Plough78]

Cold turkey on the cigs or are you vaping...? Smoking is the one thing I can't seem to beat.. 😒 *Crap Game*

[@ceedub_1983]

@@Plough78 cold turkey on cigs. I’ve never vaped before. Cigarettes are harder to quit than crack and heroin. Think of it this way, if people were told they couldn’t smoke at a rehab centre they wouldn’t even walk through the door. For me I was able to quit booze and cigs together but if you’re at least off the booze then that’s excellent. You’ll get off cigs too eventually. Try Zyban or Wellbutrin. They make you want to vomit if you smoke and then you just wean yourself off of them. Do it up bro 💪🏻

[@artvandelay7895]

Absolutely perfect summation of the nightclub experience for me and my coping mechanisms for it. So pleased I'm past the age where I have to pretend to enjoy that environment.

[@Nevyn515]

I stopped drinking a few years ago. But that was only because drinking alone is a worrying sign, so I never drank alone only with a drinking buddy. That stopped for a while when he had a baby, so we drank tea during the day instead of beer in the evening for a while, and then the pandemic times occurred, leading to me still having an unopened bottle of gin from my birthday in 2019.

[@stevenbrown835]

I would never regret to quit drinking but I do enjoy feeling. It takes away my anxiety , makes me more social , and sometime I like who I am when I am drunk. Thing is I run a lot and it kills my running times and gains at the gym because I put in so much bad weight. Also it cost a lot of money to drink.

[@BR525]

6 months.. I haven’t drank since I was a teenager. You guys are nuts. Glad ya grew up mate

[@Rosy43hh]

One needs to build up their confidence and self esteem without alcohol. I don't drink and I an be shy sometimes when dancing and my adult daughter said mom who cares what people think of you. And it finally clicked so I go out to the clubs and dance cause I love dancing and the music and I'm completely sober I love it now

[@jasonmcintyre4820]

I came home drunk in front of my son when he was three or four and I was thinking “is this what I want him to see?” I went from drinking a 12 pack every weekend to now maybe one beer per month at most. I don’t miss it at all. No hangover is the best.

[@danielleal1037]

I stopped it too back in early 2014. I haven’t missed that poison at all since then.

[@rowanmillsfis1533]

I decided to give up drinking 4 years and 3 months ago. Had been in the military for over 20 years which is an environment that encourages drinking. I work in the fitness industry and therefore work in an alternative environment that has helped me to not want to drink anymore. As Mike states, waking up with a hangover and missing a day because of alcohol is not productive.

[@emilymurphy2926]

I’m 45 years old and never ever drank myself out . I decided to stop drinking or at least how long I can go without a drink. 15 months not even a sip! I love the feeling of not wasting my money . What I do I like going for an ice cream or a coffee. So much other treats versus alcohol .

[@imarxb]

Clarity is priceless.

[@alma3787]

Just quit 9 days in, already sleep better and feel mentally in a better place.

[@rohanremi]

Great monologue on why you shouldn't drink alcohol.

[@Martin-sm6dz]

My problem is with anxiety. I'm not an alcoholic but I'm nervous when speaking to girls that I like, being in big groups of people and public speaking. Sometimes I feel like I need a drink to be more "confident" because I'm basically scared that people will see that I'm nervous and think of me as weak or something. I'm 24 and feel like I'm becoming more confident without drinking but if you tell me to do a speech or ask a girl out on a date I'm still drinking before that which is not how I want to live my life. If you have any recommendations how to fix it let me know because I don't want it to ever turn to alcoholism

[@samsonabney9058]

Bro I have literally the exact same thing and I have no clue what to do

[@jurrbandz6731]

Start to do things that give you confidence. start going to the gym if you’re not already going, get a haircut every 2 weeks. And just do it man. Talking to girls really isn’t as scary as you think. If they see you are a nice looking confident guy that wil already do 50% of the work