How much were you drinking and what problems was it causing?
At least a bottle of wine a night, more at the weekend. It was impacting the relationship with my partner and with my kids, my motivation at work, anxiety and depression, poor sleep. It was causing a lot of problems.
What was the key reason you wanted to change- what motivated you?
My family. They deserved someone that was present in their lives. My kids are very small at the moment and I want them to grow up being proud of me.
Were you sceptical this method would work?
I don’t think I was sceptical, I was hopeful it would. It felt like a bit of a last resort, having previously tried all sorts of ‘rules’ to moderate.
What had you tried before to cut down or have a break from alcohol?
Plenty of rules to try to moderate, which I’m sure you are familiar with! I’ll leave after two drinks, I’ll drink water in between, I’ll only have half a bottle of wine tonight etc etc. Dry Janaury, Sober October. I felt amazing when I didn’t drink but just couldn’t sustain it. As soon as I had a drink, my drinking starting to creep back up and soon I was back to the same level as I was before (if not more).
What amazing results did you get?
Sleep. This is a huge one for me. Two small kids has meant years of sleep deprivation! Which was only compounded by alcohol. The feeling of waking up after a ‘clean’ sleep, for me, is amazing. A calmer house, a more patient parent and partner, less anxiety, more energy. A new job! It’s all good.
What are you looking forward to and what’s now possible for you as a result of getting your freedom back?
Making good use of all the extra time and energy that I now have! I got to the point where my world had become very small, drinking wine on the sofa each night. And now there are so many possibilities!
What impact has it made to your relationship with your partner and children?
So much better. I can get up with the kids and not be grumpy, I have the energy to play with them, and calmly deal with tantrums.
What impact has it made to your career performance?
More motivation, clarity, enthusiasm. I applied for a promotion while on the course, and got it! I would never have had the energy, or the self-confidence to do this while I was drinking.
What would you say to someone thinking of signing up to work with me?
Do it.