Wednesday – Unemployed, Chasing My Dreams
Fifth Attempt – Day 1 of My “30-Day Experiment”
7:49 AM
What a night it was. I barely got any sleep. Allan was really sick last night, throwing up and sweating like crazy. I think he’s going through a tough detox because he didn’t drink yesterday, which is a big deal for him. It’s tough to see him like this, but I’m glad he’s trying to break free from the grip of alcohol.
On a scarier note, the town is going through some rough times. Drugs have taken hold of people’s lives here, leading to escalating violence and anxiety. Gunshots have been heard, and residents are living in fear. Break-ins, car thefts, and gruesome murders have become all too common, and it feels like our once peaceful community is slipping away. Witnessing children frightened in their own homes after a break-in is heartbreaking. I’ve also had my own share of terrifying encounters recently, such as being cornered and accosted by a disturbed woman. The worst part is that when you need help, the police take so long to respond that by the time they arrive, the damage is already done.
I’m just a short, overweight, out-of-shape girl with my own struggles. But I refuse to be scared anymore. I’ve been drinking for far too long, and it’s time to change my life. Maybe this is the wake-up call I needed.
Allan’s military background might come in handy as he can help train me to defend myself. However, he said the first step is to quit drinking for good, lose weight, and get in shape before I learn how to fight. This is considering I get winded just by walking our 10-minute walks in the morning.
All in all, it’s time to kick these demons out of my head, stop drinking, get in shape, and learn to protect myself and my loved ones.
I just hope I have the strength to stick to this promise I’m making to myself.
5:44 PM
I’ve kept myself busy all day with painting, trying to stay distracted from any cravings that might arise.
Allan has been doing construction on the patio, and we’ve had some great conversations throughout the day. I’m glad he’s been sober today. I know how easily he can fall back into old habits, especially when the extreme heat triggers his cravings. So, I avoided mentioning anything about alcohol to him today.
I really hope we can both stay strong and keep this up for at least 30 days. His sobriety is almost crucial for my own right now, especially in the evenings when my cravings tend to intensify.
6:30 PM
Allan seems to be struggling a bit with cravings. He’s getting irritated, and I can sense it. I’ve decided to give him some space and head to bed early. I just want to stay away from any triggers and protect my newfound determination. Tonight, I’m grateful that we’re both sober. It’s not easy, but we’re in this together, and that gives me hope.
I’m ending the day with a mix of emotions – hope, fear, determination, and uncertainty. But I know one thing for sure, I’m committed to making positive changes in my life. Tomorrow is a new day, and I’ll face it with the same resolve. One step at a time, I’m going to conquer my demons, and Allan and I will support each other on this journey to sobriety and a safer, healthier life.
Until tomorrow,
– That Anonymous Artist
Supplementary Info: 30 Day Alcohol Challenge
Congratulations on taking up the 30-Day Alcohol Challenge! Whether you’re an occasional drinker, a social drinker, or someone struggling with alcohol-related issues, this alcohol-free challenge can be a transformative experience. For the next month, you’ll be cutting out all alcoholic drinks, and by the end of it, you might just be surprised at the benefits you’ve gained.
During the first few days, you could experience some alcohol withdrawal symptoms. These may include irritability, headaches, and trouble sleeping. But don’t worry, they are temporary and a sign that your body is adjusting to the change. Your liver, which works tirelessly to process alcohol, will have a much-needed break, allowing it to start repairing itself. Not only that, but your brain will also thank you as it gets a chance to heal and function better without the influence of alcohol.
One of the immediate effects you’ll notice is improved sleep. Without alcohol disrupting your sleep patterns, you’ll find yourself waking up feeling more refreshed and energized. In just a few weeks, you may even notice that you’ve lost some weight. Alcohol is filled with empty calories, and cutting it out can lead to significant weight loss, especially if you’re mindful of what you eat and drink in its place.
Beyond the physical benefits, there are numerous mental health advantages to this challenge. Many people drink as a coping mechanism, and during this month, you’ll find healthier ways to deal with stress and emotions. Your mental clarity will improve, and you’ll likely notice reduced anxiety levels.
By the end of the 30 days, you’ll have proven to yourself that you can go without alcohol, and this accomplishment may give you the confidence to reduce or quit drinking alcohol in the long term. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. There are millions of people who’ve taken up similar challenges, such as “Dry January,” and they’ve experienced positive changes too.
If you’re someone who’s struggled with alcohol in the past or were worried about the risk of developing an alcohol use disorder, then this challenge could be a crucial step towards a healthier future. However, if you find that quitting alcohol entirely is too difficult, even after the 30 days, don’t hesitate to seek professional help and treatment. Your physical and mental well-being should always be a priority.
So, go ahead and start your 30-Day Alcohol Challenge today. Remember to stay hydrated with water during this time, as it’ll not only help with alcohol withdrawal symptoms but also improve your overall health. Every journey begins with a single step, and you’ve taken that step towards a better you. Cheers to a month of positive changes and new beginnings!