What I Learned From 6 Months Without Alcohol - Mike Thurston

Chris and Mike Thurston reflect on their sobriety. Why did Mike Thurston and Chris stop drinking alcohol? What is their relationship to alcohol now? How much is alcohol holding most people back?
#alcohol #partying #mikethurston
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[@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 ❤

[@greencrocidile6246]

Bro I thought these guys were the same person

[@johnwink9587]

Same lmao

[@kuna209]

Lol I used to think that too 😊

[@BrownGeorge-pw2xo]

Alcohol and cigarettes addiction actually destroyed my life. I could remember several years ago after divorce with my wife which brought me into my disastrous journey on Alcohol and cigarettes. I suffered severe depression and mental disorder. Got diagnosed with cptsd. Not until a friend recommended me to psilocybin mushrooms treatment. Psilocybin treatment saved my life honestly. 8 years totally clean. Much respect to mother nature the great magic shrooms.

[@Ronkaja]

Amen God bless people. Save your health save your mind. Life is better without heroin, cocaine, alcohol and cigarettes. And you have more money in your pocket. God bless everyone who has rejected the devils intentions to be addicted to alcohol and cigarettes etc which can cause so much damage to health.

[@Bastianbishops]

Hey mates! Can you help with the source? I suffer severe anxiety, panic and depression and I usually take prescription medicine, but they don't always help. Where can I find those psilocybin mushrooms? I'm really interested in treating my mental health without Rxs. I live in Australia don't know much about these. I'm so glad they helped you. I can't wait to get them too. Really need a reliable source 🙏

[@DonnHowes]

YES Dr.alishrooms

[@NicoleCtirad]

Congrats! I'm really happy for you that your friend decided to help you. I always admire those who beat their addiction. Knowing it's possible to fix your life knowing there's people out there that have done what I thought was impossible gives me hope I will make it through as well. Those who share their experiences don't know how much it helps when you're about to give up, it gives you the strength knowing somone who actully know what it's like to go through this tell you it's possible, it's not the same somone telling you you can do it when they have no idea what it's like, but hearing somone who knows what it's like that helps a lot since you understand it firsthand and made it out gives so much hope. so thanks for sharing.

[@SharonFalcon-fj7nb]

How can I find him? Is he on insta

[@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

[@ciaYimengKriete]

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

[@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

[@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.

[@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

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@Jumpingjackflash123]

People are slowly starting to not drink

[@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.

[@doyle8277]

Cheers to you right now from Dublin.

[@Harrymaguireisthegoatoffootbal]

Keep going pal, every day it gets easier and better

[@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!

[@vismayny]

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

[@vismayny]

@@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

[@ArchiProcess]

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?

[@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.

[@kevin85115]

I have 7 years sober from drugs and alcohol and it is amazing

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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 🤝

[@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...

[@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.

[@Jumpingjackflash123]

You get her on Naltroxone?

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@braco6757]

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.

[@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

[@justinthematrix]

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

[@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

[@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.

[@justinthematrix]

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

[@_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!

[@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.

[@ThePlough1978]

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

[@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!😮

[@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

[@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.

[@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

[@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

[@rohanremi]

Great monologue on why you shouldn't drink alcohol.

[@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.

[@chrisgreen7194]

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

[@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

[@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 ✌️😄

[@ytcensorship8180]

​@@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. 💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@ManicMindTrick]

I've done that experience and sober me sucks to party with.

[@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.

[@hannahdreyfuss7120]

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

[@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 🙏

[@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.

[@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.

[@maxkraushaar3575]

Excellent podcast. 5 stars, perfect. Thank you!

[@vanmarko6654]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@VeslemoyH]

Thanks this was so great.

[@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.

[@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. 🙏

[@timjohnson2235]

Drinking when celebrating is pointless. You’re already in a happy mood so why would need to drink to make yourself even more happier? Because in reality it doesn’t.

[@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

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

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

[@katiep2676]

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.

[@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.

[@abc9570]

Haven’t had a drink since October 15th, 2022

[@pedropereira-sr7db]

I live in portugal. Its part of culture here. I stopped drinking and everyone asks if Im sick. I respond NOT ANYMORE!

[@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.

[@spenceredford4403]

Not drinking in 2023 is like not smoking in 1953. One day people will look back and wonder why everyone was under this mass dillusion that alcohol is a normal and acceptable practice in society.

[@khadyadjisall5708]

I am a muslim si my opinion is biased. I can kinda understand the drinking culture, since I’ve grew up in Italy. Kids do get some sip of wine during supper, at holidays, festivities ect. The legal drinking age is 18, but many start drinking at about 15, mainly because they want to look grown. We have many incidents linked to drive drinking, young people that passed out because of alcohol poisoning ect I honestly never understand the appeal 😅 there’s so many ways to have fun without being intoxicated

[@jackstone112]

i doubt it, look back at history for referance, alchol is such a big part of human culture no matter the country, we might be drinking much stronger alcholic drinks then in the past, but i very much doubt that in 100 years that most people won't drink at all, lets say they stop with alcohol, they will just switch it out for something else.

[@kirkpierce2260]

5 thousand years of culture might disagree

[@nagillim7915]

While i agree, where will we be socialising when all the bars and clubs have gone because no one is drinking? Sitting in your mate's house is okay but you don't meet new people that way. And the reality of friendships is they don't last forever. As a 44 year old, pretty much all the friends i made through school and uni are gone. We moved on to new phases of life and drifted apart. And socialising with workmates is kinda like still being at work in that you just end up talking about work all the time, and no one wants to be in work mode 24/7. I guess if you're straight there's the partners of your current partner's friends, because women are much better at sustaining friendships while in romantic relationships than men are, but i've known far too many straight men whose relationships ended and the circle of friends they thought they had went with the relationship. It's one of the reasons male suicide rates are so high. So if not the pub where do we go to meet new people and establish new friendships as the old ones inevitably drift away? Even if you're into tabletop gaming or pool or darts, in my experience those groups often meet in pubs anyway. And pubs have to make a profit by selling enough drinks or the pub closes down. If we want public spaces in which we can meet people then we have to pay for them one way or another. And i can go to a pub for several hours, have 2 or 3 pints, and still spend less than i would if i met friends for coffee for an hour or two, or went for a restaurant meal. If the priority is the socialising then there are few places that are better value for money than the local pub...

[@docKAM]

Lol not even close

[@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...

[@imarxb]

Clarity is priceless.

[@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.

[@ramseysuss8710]

So well put, wow.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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 .

[@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 ?

[@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.

[@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.

[@claytonmarkin7863]

If you are trying to get strict on diet or budget, alcohol can't be in the picture. I never had a drinking problem, but looking at Costco receipts alcohol was nearly equal to our meat costs, which is most peoples biggest line item. Same with going to restaurants, booze can easily equal your food costs. Combine that with the calories, sleep effects, and general health implications and it's clear that drinking cannot co-exist with weight loss or real fitness improvements. I wanted to get tighter on my belt and my finances, cutting booze has been a no-brainer.

[@toad6417]

Exactly. I always enjoy nights out getting drunk with friends, and I'm not a problem drinker. But I never worked out or ate healthy the next day. Cutting alcohol out by 95% has allowed me to achieve running and eating goals

[@longlostsonicsfan]

Well said

[@hansblitz7770]

For the cost thing, alcohol is definitely cheap where I live. But, only the low quality. True that it is 100% counterproductive to fitness.

[@drewsykes8152]

I met a couple of lifelong friends but didn’t really enjoy uni due to exactly the reason described here of drinking to try to enjoy it. I remember never feeling so alone than buzzing drunk in a club at the end of the night with some anthem pop song blaring in the background. I wish we’d felt better equipped to talk to each other about our feelings back then as I’m sure many others felt similarly. I still feel lonely sometimes but never like back then.

[@bygonehobes8470]

Chris I just want to say you inspired me a while ago to stop drinking. As of 2023 I have only gotten drunk once and tipsy twice. Thank you for making these, I dont have a substance problem I just want to make myself the best I can be and alcohol has not helped me do anything in my life. It has only made me stagnate. And my hangovers are FUCK**G awful now, so thats a big reason too

[@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.

[@kristelanneparagas]

I've never liked the taste, I was just drinking due to peer pressure before. But once I've gotten over that my life became better. I realized I dont need alcohol to enjoy friends company or be confident and talk to people.

[@Melanie-le6mw]

Great upload! ☺️

[@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).

[@robertpearson8146]

Quite seven months ago, it’s vibes in the house!

[@Hannah-201]

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

[@JoWho-xh1zd]

I have suffered with severe anxiety all my life. I just haven't found anything that can ease that anxiety like alcohol. Had a few stints before and just starting a new stint. Trying a year this time. I'd love to give up for good but a this moment, alcohol is a part of me. So hard to give up.

[@kenyanicholas6809]

My very first time having a drink was last fall in the UK! I ordered a very sweet strawberry kiwi (I think) cider. I’m grateful for the experience, now I’m sure that I don’t like alcohol.

[@stickpuck8017]

For one point in the why drink (sometimes) category, especially for men, and just a couple, not getting wasted, is the capacity to have difficult emotional conversations you don't know how to have. Example, most men are emotionally inarticulate. Especially at a young age. Most dad's of past generations are worse. A few drinks can aid both in overcoming some obstacles and bond as they feel the consequences of expressing their emotions less. It's a double edge sword I know. But just wanted to throw it out there.

[@ceedub_1983]

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

[@ThePlough1978]

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

[@ceedub_1983]

@@ThePlough1978 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 💪🏻

[@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)

[@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.

[@paulfitness5157]

I did go out at weekend and had a few drinks at a club,I wasn't legless just had a good buzz on and actually had a great nite

[@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!

[@Lalvarez1223]

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]

@@Lalvarez1223 thanks. Felt like I wasted and fucked it all up cause I got back on it. But now, I’m going sober again.

[@certidailyfacts]

Hope it's going well brother.

[@BGborda]

Life is so good sober

[@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.

[@hamadalhamad2089]

There’s a verse in the Quran that says something along the lines of that means to , and as for alcohol and gambling there’s benefits and negatives , and the negatives far outweigh the benefits .

[@RealziesCuts]

205 days No Alcohol 🏆 Sleep is much improved. Life is a lot better and gratitude comes into focus much more often now.

[@sayros6711]

I've stopped drinking since mid April, not a drop of alcohol, nothing but water. I never thought I could manage, I thought water was boring, and nothing beat having a good buzz with friends. It's been an adjustment for my friends, but for me I am now perfectly capable of having a great time being with close friends just drinking water. Getting into fitness has been an added motivation. I know alcohol screws up muscle growth, so when you're busting your ass in the gym, the last thing you want is your efforts to go even a little bit to waste because of alcohol so it helps to stay on the path, and honestly after a month I wasn't even thinking about it anymore. I do not miss alcohol, I feel like I could go the rest of my life without a drink by now and I'd be just fine. I should mention I never had a drinking problem though, so I'm not sure how easy of a transition it is for someone who has one.