This past week I dropped my units from 51 to 23. The problem is I had 5 AF days and had 10 and 13 beers on the other 2 days. The drinking sessions were separated by 2 days. I am about 5 months in, and 5 AF days seemed quite impossible at the beginning. Still, it is easier for me to go AF than moderate. Drinking for me is a deeply ingrained habit, and maybe I'm chasing a buzz that no longer exists. When I drink now (always observing the Golden Rule) I just feel numbed out and tired. Not exactly pleasurable. Much like UK Blonde, I think my future lies in being totally AF. Any and all thoughts and comments welcomed!

If you aren't enjoying alcohol, I'd be asking why do you drink it?

Good question UK. I do not have a reasonable answer except sheer force of habit. On a positive note, I think the extinction process is definitely beginning to take hold. One thing I must do is find something positive to replace wasted hours attempting to get wasted. Working harder, more gym time, riding my motorcycle through the Carolina mountains are all positive things that have been displaced by drinking sessions. The bottom line is that I need to put forth more effort rather than relying solely on The Golden Rule.

Yup, and you can just fill it with being sober. Funny how we think that every minute and every hour must be 'doing' time.

Hey Retread,

Just my 2 cents. I also have an easier time having an AF day than moderating once I start. I think it is the brain still looking for the endorphins and just pushing to get them. It is getting better for sure but once I am feeling tipsy, I do have the urge to drink more and keep it going. If I let the buzz die down (usually by accident or necessity - not because I want to) I can then stop - but when I am buzzed, I want to stay buzzed, for sure.

I am also finding that if I go a couple days, my drinking seems to be a bit more excessive when I start back up. I'm not sure if this is all in my head or could it be a toned down 'Alcohol Deprivation Effect' situation? Something to consider.....

Keep up the good work. We will make it to the other side together!

Jephiner