“The Opposite of Addiction is Connection.”

- Johann Hari -

For years, alcohol had been a constant companion in my life. It was there during celebrations, social gatherings, times of sadness, and just because. It was a friend, or so I thought. But as time passed, I realised that my relationship with alcohol wasn’t as healthy as I believed it was. In fact, it had become quite toxic! It had slowly taken over my life, affecting my health, physical and emotional well-being, and relationships.

After a little nudge from the universe, I decided I needed to make some changes.

Through these changes, I discovered the transformative power of connection and it became the key driver in making sustainable shifts in my habits.

As I embarked on my day-by-day journey to sobriety, I learned that the craving for alcohol wasn’t solely physical; it was also deeply rooted in the psychological and emotional aspects of my beliefs. I had to “do the work” to begin to untangle some of the reasons WHY I drank in this way for so long. Trying to face this challenge alone seemed daunting; I had no idea where to begin. That’s when I turned to the power of connection and realised I was not alone in this struggle! Wow, what a huge turning point for me!

Finding other people, even virtually, and through the internet from around the world, who were going through the same struggles as me was a game-changer!

I no longer felt alone or isolated in my quest to remove alcohol from my life, and these connections gave me the confidence and accountability to continue each day.

Feeling part of a community and being part of a tribe became essential to my letting go of alcohol. I discovered other people who understood my struggles and were willing to lend support without judgement. This sense of belonging and understanding provided a safe space where I could openly express my fears and challenges while also being inspired by those ahead of me on their own journey.

Connecting with others who had similar experiences showed me that an alcohol-free life was possible. Sharing stories of triumphs and setbacks allowed me to see that the path to sobriety was not linear and that not judging and being kind to myself was also crucial. I began to see it as an opportunity for growth, not something I was ‘giving up’.

One of the most significant benefits of connecting with others was the opportunity to learn from their experiences.

Listening to how they coped with triggers and temptations gave me valuable insights into my own behaviour. Over time, I built a ‘toolbox’ of coping mechanisms that allowed me to navigate challenging situations without turning to alcohol.

Being part of a community, whether it was through a podcast, online group, Facebook/Instagram or in-person, introduced me to new ways and ideas to explore sobriety. It also challenged me to get out of my comfort zone and try new experiences without any booze involved. I never thought I’d have a go at dragonboat racing or attempt stand-up paddle boarding whilst dodging stingrays! From joining a Sunday walking group to organising art classes and retreats, taking up Tai Chi and travelling solo overseas with carry-on luggage only! Finding new activities not only kept me engaged, as I now had a lot of spare time, but also formed the foundation of new, healthier habits.

Oh, sobriety opens a whole new world of bravery!

In comparison, I believe alcohol kept my world small.

As the years have passed, my commitment to staying sober has dramatically strengthened due to the connections I have cultivated. Celebrating big and small milestones with people who understood each step's significance was incredibly empowering. Likewise, celebrating others’ milestones is also such a joy.

Now, five years into my sobriety, I understand the true power of connection. It’s more than just a support network; it’s a lifeline. The relationships and friendships I have formed along the way have been instrumental in reshaping my life, bringing me closer to my authentic self. They have provided the missing piece of the puzzle in changing my relationship with alcohol and helped me build a life filled with purpose, fulfilment, and lasting connections.

If you find yourself struggling with alcohol or any other challenge, I urge you to seek out connection. Find your tribe, your community, and let them guide and support you on your journey to positive change.

As I write this, it is International World Friendship Day. It is such a wonderful reminder of the friendships I have made in my sober community, my tribe, both locally and internationally. It is because of these friendships and the connections I’ve made that I am now packing my carry-on only bags (did I mention that being sober makes you brave, ha-ha!) as I prepare for my European holiday, which is all about connection and where I will get to meet friends, supporters and people from an inspirational, motivating, sober community that I have spent the last five years cultivating.

Embrace the power of connection, and you’ll be amazed at the transformations it can bring to your life.

Bon Voyage!

Cindy

RECENT EVENTS

On the 23rd July I held my fundraiser the 2023 Dry July Long Table Lunch in support of LOOK GOOD FEEL BETTER (LGFB), a not-for-profit charity dedicated to helping those on their cancer journey.

It was such an amazing day connecting with beautiful souls in person for a day of fun, celebration, relaxation and wonderful food, non-alcoholic beverages and games.

We raised $2,006 for Feel Good Look Better!

Here’s what some of my guests had to say:

"Thank you so much for a beautiful Sunday spent in good company with fine food & beverages. It was really beautiful how you held the space and to meet your community! Delighted to hear that you were able to exceed your target."

Kate P

"It was such a classy, well organised and enjoyable event. Time went too quickly!"

Donna B

"What an amazing event! I'm still buzzing and so grateful!"

Helen T