Introduction
As 2024 comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on one of the most transformative personal changes I made this year—redefining my relationship with alcohol. What started as another Dry January quickly turned into something far bigger than I anticipated.
I’ve been “sober curious” for a few years now. I’d often think about cutting back on alcohol, but I never quite felt I had the stamina or commitment to go for it. Social events would always take over, and I’d slip back into the familiar cycle: a drink to relax, a few more for the fun, and a slow start the next morning. It was easy, it was expected, and it was the norm.
But this year was different.
Details
Article First Published on: 30 Dec 24
One Year; Few Beers
Reflections on 2024
The Turning Point
This wasn’t my first Dry January, but when I finished it this time, something shifted. I felt lighter, sharper, and more energetic. I thought, Why stop here? Why not see how far I can go? Around the same time, I’d been reading blogs and listening to podcasts about alcohol’s impact on health and mindset. That research nudged me forward, and I decided to extend the experiment. The results were life-changing.
Fitness Breakthroughs
One of the most immediate changes was in my cycling. With the same training as before, I suddenly found myself keeping up with the fastest riders in my club—something I’d previously thought was out of reach. It wasn’t just about fitness; it was about consistency. Without the slow mornings and lethargy that followed social drinks, I was showing up to every ride with focus and energy.
Navigating Challenges
The journey wasn’t without its challenges. In the early months, I avoided a few events altogether because I wasn’t sure how to navigate them sober. One standout moment was the annual leadership forum, where I was surrounded by new faces. Normally, I’d have had a drink to relax and ease into conversations. Instead, I relied on myself, and while it felt uneasy at the time, I grew from it.
By the middle of the year, I’d become confident enough in my new mindset to approach social situations differently. I realized it wasn’t about abstinence forever but about knowing when and why to drink.
My goal was always to redefine my relationship with alcohol, not to cut it out completely.
Social Impact
One of the biggest shifts was in how I spent my time with others. I started prioritizing activities that didn’t always revolve around meeting for a drink. From outdoor adventures, sports challenges to simply catching up over coffee or a meal. I found myself building deeper connections with friends who valued our time together for what it was, not for the pints we shared. It helped me realise that relationships built on shared values and experiences often outlast those centred around the pub.
Lessons Learned and Looking Ahead
This year has taught me that alcohol doesn’t have to be a default in our lives. It’s so ingrained in our culture—“Let’s grab a beer,” “Celebrate with a drink”—that we rarely question it. But stepping back allowed me to see what life could look like without it. Fitness, mental clarity, and time spent reflecting on what really matters all improved. Most importantly, I realised that I didn’t need alcohol to enjoy life or navigate its challenges.
As for 2025, the plan is simple: keep building on this foundation. I’ll enjoy a drink when it feels right, but I’ll never return to relying on it to relax, socialise, or unwind. So, what’s one small change you could make in 2025 that might open up unexpected opportunities for growth? For me, this journey was never about perfection. Let’s call it “One Year, Few Beers.” But it was about learning, growing, and stepping outside of old habits.
Here’s to clarity, purpose, and making intentional choices in 2025. Cheers—zero beer or otherwise
Past and Present
Past: 2023 (A few too many beers) and Present 2024 (In a happier place, chilling with a Guinness Zero)