![Original on Transparent.png](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/9c5247_e60c55d1e90f4f4c983eca915d19457a~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_307,h_71,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/Original%20on%20Transparent.png)
![Ocean](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_072948185e7345dd91b126e009855d05~mv2_d_5963_3975_s_4_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_361,h_241,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/11062b_072948185e7345dd91b126e009855d05~mv2_d_5963_3975_s_4_2.jpg)
It wasn't easy, but it's worth it!
Going alcohol free was the best decision I ever made for myself.
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/9c5247_fa9d05d28ef544adb888157ee177e4ae~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_247,h_165,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/9c5247_fa9d05d28ef544adb888157ee177e4ae~mv2.png)
Invaluable Lessons I Learned While Saying Goodbye to Booze.
Decreased Depression & Anxiety
​
For years, I underestimate the impact of alcohol on my mental well-being. I was aware of its depressant nature, but never truly believed it applied to me.
​
Without alcohol I am grateful to have significantly lowered the levels of depression and anxiety, revealing the true weight alcohol carried in my life.
![Ocean](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_072948185e7345dd91b126e009855d05~mv2_d_5963_3975_s_4_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_361,h_241,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/11062b_072948185e7345dd91b126e009855d05~mv2_d_5963_3975_s_4_2.jpg)
Life's greatest lessons are often learned through the toughest experiences.
![Ocean](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_072948185e7345dd91b126e009855d05~mv2_d_5963_3975_s_4_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_361,h_241,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/11062b_072948185e7345dd91b126e009855d05~mv2_d_5963_3975_s_4_2.jpg)
Your self image is not defined by how others perceive you,
but how you perceive yourself.
An Improved Self Image
​
In the past, I held onto the illusion alcohol added a touch of allure to my personality. Yet, a simple glance at old pictures shattered that belief. Instead of seeing a glamorous version of myself, I saw a red-nosed, squinty-eyed reflection.
​
It was a humbling reminder true beauty and authenticity shine brightest when unmasked by alcohol's influence.
Appreciating My Introverted Nature
​
Alcohol may have temporarily made me more talkative, but I've come to appreciate and embrace my natural quiet and somewhat introverted nature.
​
Sobriety has allowed me to discover the beauty in silence, deepening my connection with myself and others in a more genuine way.
![Ocean](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_072948185e7345dd91b126e009855d05~mv2_d_5963_3975_s_4_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_361,h_241,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/11062b_072948185e7345dd91b126e009855d05~mv2_d_5963_3975_s_4_2.jpg)
Dont underestimate me because I am quiet. I know more than I say, think more than I speak and observe more than you know.
Michaela Chung
![Ocean](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_072948185e7345dd91b126e009855d05~mv2_d_5963_3975_s_4_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_361,h_241,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/11062b_072948185e7345dd91b126e009855d05~mv2_d_5963_3975_s_4_2.jpg)
If at first you don't succeed, try try try again.
Increased Self Compassion
​
Lastly, there were moments in the early stages of my journey when I allowed myself a glass of wine. Instead of berating myself, I chose to view it as an opportunity for growth. It became a chance to identify triggers and develop strategies to navigate similar scenarios in the future.
Each setback became a stepping stone towards a stronger, more resilient version of myself.