Wednesday – Work Day
First Attempt – Day 7 of My “30-Day No Alcohol Challenge”
6:40 AM
Oh, boy, another day of work!
It feels like my life revolves around my job these days, leaving no time for anything else. It’s frustrating, to say the least.
I find myself longing to pursue my artistic passion instead of spending my days at the lobster cannery. Maybe I should dust off those old paintings I started years ago and abandoned due to my focus on drinking. Perhaps it’s time to stop waiting for the perfect job and create one for myself as an independent artist.
It’s worth pondering as I pick shells out of lobster claws today. Maybe, just maybe, that could be my way out of this mundane routine.
3:03 PM
Work, so far today, has been a nightmare.
While my coworkers were busy flirting and working at a snail’s pace, I couldn’t even take a decent lunch break. Lobster after lobster piled up in my work area, leaving me stuck at my station, desperately trying to find space for them all.
And where was Caroline, the supervisor? Off for her lunch break, as always, conveniently avoiding the chaos.
To make matters worse, after lunch, my coworker Justin had the audacity to say he would have stayed and helped if he knew about my predicament.
Yeah, right!
Justin avoids lifting a finger to assist anyone, preferring to flirt with the other female workers instead.
It’s frustrating how much responsibility I take on and how much I care about doing a great job, while those around me seem content with the bare minimum. And why should they work harder than they do? Our annual raise remains fixed at a mere $0.25, regardless of our individual work ethic and dedication.
It’s becoming clearer that I need to choose between lowering my standards and embracing mediocrity or staying true to my ambitious nature and pursuing my dreams. Option two is definitely more enticing.
So I have two options:
- Stop caring about my work and do the bare minimum like everyone else around me seems to be doing.
- Stay true to my ambitious nature, remain sober, invent my perfect dream job, and achieve my goals.
Option number 2 seems more exciting.
6:31 PM
I’ve finally arrived home, and Allan (my boyfriend), is preoccupied with putting gas cans in the SUV. The never-ending rain has made our solar panels inefficient, so we’re relying on the generator.
I have a feeling he’ll want to buy some beer on the way home from the gas station, but I’m not really craving alcohol at the moment. Instead, I’ll treat myself to a delicious Strawberry & Cream ice cream.
It’s a small pleasure that keeps my mind occupied.
7:38 PM
As expected, Allan made a stop at the liquor store, but I didn’t bother to see what he bought.
I’m here in the kitchen, attempting to make ramen noodles. I’m not the greatest cook, but hey, I’ll eat anything.
I’ve decided to wind down by watching America’s Got Talent while Allan enjoys some videos on Prime.
Meanwhile, Emily (my best friend) and Allan seem to be in a good mood, enjoying their drinks while texting in our Facebook group chat. Emily is currently wondering why I’m doing this 30-day sobriety challenge, claiming that being sober is boring.
But tonight, I realize that whether I drink or not, my activities would have been the same. The only difference is that I’ll remember tonight, and I’ll have a better night’s sleep because I’m sober.
10:37 PM
My boyfriend keeps tossing and turning in bed. He sounds drunk and complains about a severe headache. I gave him water and some extra-strength Tylenol, hoping to alleviate his discomfort.
It makes me question the role alcohol plays in our lives. Do we really need it to have a good time? After all, he was going to do the same activities, drunk or sober.
What does alcohol truly provide?
On the other hand, I just reminded myself that drinking helps me relax, momentarily easing the anxiety that perpetually lurks in the background. My tendency to worry and anticipate the worst is a major factor in my struggle with alcoholism. But when withdrawal hits, my anxiety skyrockets, and I even experience panic attacks.
Is it worth trading a relaxing night for a morning filled with anxiety?
The seesaw of emotions I subject myself to seems senseless and self-destructive.
My brain is shutting down. I need to sleep. Zzzz
– That Anonymous Artist
Supplementary Info: 7 Days No Alcohol
Cutting back on alcohol consumption or quitting drinking alcohol altogether can have numerous benefits for your health. If you’re someone who typically drinks a few drinks a day, you might experience some alcohol withdrawal symptoms when you stop. These symptoms usually peak within 24 to 72 hours after your last drink and may include sweating, shaking, headaches, nausea, and even delirium tremens in severe cases. However, after the first few days, you’ll begin to notice improvements in your body and overall well-being.
During the seven days without alcohol, your body goes through significant changes. Your liver, which is responsible for processing alcohol, will start to recover and function more efficiently. Without alcohol, your blood pressure levels may improve, reducing the risk of cardiovascular problems. Moreover, you’ll be giving your body a break from empty calories, as alcoholic beverages can contribute to weight gain. Instead, you can enjoy the many benefits of staying hydrated with water or choosing healthier beverage options.
Quitting drinking for a week also has positive effects on mental health. Alcohol is a depressant, and its consumption can worsen symptoms of depression and anxiety. By abstaining from alcohol for seven days, you’re providing your brain with a chance to reset and regulate its chemicals more effectively. Many people find that their mood improves, and they experience greater mental clarity during this time. Additionally, better sleep quality is often reported, as alcohol can disrupt normal sleep patterns.
If you’re concerned about social situations or peer pressure during your alcohol-free week, remember that there are plenty of enjoyable activities you can participate in without alcohol. Take a walk in the park, try out a new hobby, or join a group fitness class. Open yourself to new experiences and discover the joy of spending time with loved ones without relying on alcohol.
By the end of your seven-day alcohol detox, you’ll likely notice both physical and mental improvements. You might have more energy, feel lighter, and even see changes in your appearance. Beyond these short-term benefits, taking a break from alcohol can also have long-term advantages for your health. Reducing alcohol consumption or abstaining from it altogether can lower your risk of developing liver disease, certain types of cancer, and other alcohol-related health conditions.
Remember, this website is not meant to replace professional advice. If you have concerns about alcohol consumption, withdrawal symptoms, or any other health issues, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider who can provide personalized guidance and support.