Sober-curious.
I heard it was a Gen-Z thing? Or maybe I'm just getting old.
For the past 10 months, I’ve been exploring something different. Previously, I consumed it weekly (often two or three times a week), I looked forward to it, I did it with friends, I did it to celebrate, to forget, to repress, or to switch off. Although, I had never gone more than a month or 6 weeks without it.
I’m talking about having a drink.
It’s been an eye (and mind) opening journey being sober. Navigating a world without this social lubricant. Yes, the pro’s out weight the cons, but I’ve really seen a shift in who I am and how I show up in the world without it.
Things I’ve learnt about myself (not drinking);
My clarity of thought has been laser sharp; I am able to concentrate for longer, facts or memories seem to pop up from my long-term when speaking and are readily available. Like a seen out of Limitless. Another plus, more ideas. New and exciting ones. More connected to Source perhaps, if you’ve read Rick Rubin’s – The Creative Act. A way of Being.
My confidence and ability to regulate my thoughts and nervous system has been a major advantage. I was diagnosed with OCD two years ago and cutting the booze has been the best way to manage my it*. I attribute this to minimising the inflammation within my body and mind.
My sleep is better, my body recovers better from training, and I have the capacity to work on more projects. I’m on the back end of my busiest time of year and I had more on my plate than ever before. I’ve delivered my best work, all with a calm and clear sense of being.
I’ve travelled more, saved more money, and had more time to create or explore new ideas (including this Substack)
I’ve also accepted some harder truths, some friendships have shifted, time spent ‘connecting’ (drinking) are no longer as regular. No one really tells you how to break up with a friend(s), but as I’ve put my own needs first, I’ve begun to attract those that have similar values and interests. They were always there. Now, I invest more time and energy with them. I believe this is the evolution of friendship(s).
Overall, I feel reevaluating my relationship alcohol has helped me build a stronger acceptance of myself. I have no judgement to those who enjoy a drink, I’m down for a zero %, so holla at me.
But for now, it gives me this sense of control over myself, a commitment to nurturing and respecting my body and mind. Something that I haven’t been the best at in the past.
For those that are interested in learning more about the physiological + neurological effects of drinking alcohol, I highly recommend listening to Andrew Huberman’s – Alcohols effects on the body and mind
** If you are interested in hearing more about my volatile journey with OCD, drop me a direct message. Happy to share more. or if you want an article (or novel) I can craft something.
Things I’ve seen lately;
Here’s a collection of images from my favourites list lately, moments I capture to reflect on later.
Next article, I’ll share some insights on projects from the last few months, including a Subspace wrap up.
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Whilst sitting still,
Willocks x