Discovering Joy Beyond the Bottle: Kerry’s Journey

What if a more fulfilling life is waiting just beyond your next drink? Kerry spent years convinced that fun required alcohol—an idea rooted in her childhood. However, the reality proved to be very different. After experiencing blackouts, painful realizations, and regretful moments, Kerry began seeking something beyond her alcohol-fueled life. What she discovered was even better: the joy of having fun without drinking. In this touching narrative, Kerry discusses how she minimized the role of alcohol in her life and welcomed a future overflowing with happiness, community, and clarity.

Alcohol Was Fun—Until It Wasn’t

As a child, I viewed alcohol as the secret ingredient to a good time. When my mom opened a Busch beer, it was time for fun—building forts, munching on M&Ms, and sharing laughs until bedtime. She appeared happy, never angry or messy. That was my youthful perception: alcohol equated to happiness.

So, when I reached the legal drinking age, I didn’t hesitate. I believed I needed alcohol to belong, unwind, and be carefree. Initially, it seemed effective. I danced, laughed, and felt free. But the consequences came crashing down a little later—blackouts, regret, and the shame that followed the morning after.

Ironically, I often didn’t remember those supposedly “fun” evenings at all.

The Downfall

My relationship with alcohol worsened in 2007, following the unexpected passing of my sister. That loss devastated me. Lacking effective coping mechanisms, I turned to alcohol as a way to numb my pain. What began as casual weekend drinks spiraled into binge drinking.

There were nights where I blacked out and awoke to stories oblivious to me. I lost control, yet people didn’t seem to mind because I was known as “the fun one.” I carried the heavy load of my alter ego—the one who couldn’t recall her actions but heard about them later.

Eventually, I attempted to quit abruptly. I abstained for three and a half years, convincing myself that I had a handle on it. But moderation? It never suited me. One glass quickly escalated to one bottle. The descent was swift, and soon I was caught in that familiar cycle again.

Reaching My Breaking Point

There’s a picture of me slumped on a friend’s shoulder. I don’t recall that event, but I distinctly remember discovering that photograph on my phone. She was laughing; I was passed out. That image became a powerful reminder—a turning point.

I now keep it in my journal as a bookmark to never forget what alcohol cost me.

I grew weary of being someone’s punchline. Tired of the comments like, “You’re so much fun when you drink.” Tired of not recalling the moments everyone else cherished. That’s not fun. That’s existence.

Discovering This Naked Mind

I had searched online for everything: “Am I drinking too much?” “How to quit alcohol?” “Is moderation possible?” That’s when I came across Annie Grace on my Facebook feed introducing the 5-Day Alcohol Challenge. On a whim, I decided to join in May 2024. I even entered a contest to win access to The Path while actively participating in the challenge. I genuinely didn’t expect to win.

But I did!

When Coach Hayley called my name, I broke down in tears. That scholarship transformed my life. I thought I’d secured access for merely a month—only to find out it was for an entire year. I was fully committed.

🎯 Ready to Discover Enjoyment Without Alcohol?

Join The Path from This Naked Mind—a program founded on science and compassion assisting you in making alcohol diminutive and insignificant.
With daily coaching, support calls, and a community that gets it, you’ll never feel isolated on this journey.

👉 Learn more or join the waitlist now at NakedMindPath.com

Transitioning from Fear to Freedom

Before The Path, I feared alcohol—not because I understood it, but due to my ignorance. I was anxious about its effects on my mind, body, and relationships. Yet, that fear alone didn’t prevent me from slipping back into old habits.

Through Annie’s program, I learned the reasons alcohol impacted me as it did. Knowledge empowered me. Compassion offered me grace. I transitioned from fearing alcohol to simply lacking interest in it. That shift transformed everything.

What Enjoying Life Without Alcohol Looks Like

Having fun without alcohol means waking up without dread. I can dance, laugh, and sing without worrying about potential regrets the next day. I can enjoy live music shows with the confidence of knowing how I’ll get home—I’ll be the one driving.

It involves playing games with my grandkids, having deep conversations that I actually remember, and being fully engaged with loved ones.

It means no longer feeling pressure to perform. I’m not the “fun drunk Kerry” anymore. I’m just myself, and that’s more than enough.

Embracing Duck Mode and Daily Victories

Coach Ruby introduced me to the concept of “duck mode.” This means walking into situations with confidence and determination. I bring my own non-alcoholic drinks and plan ahead. Before heading out, I remind myself, “No need to figure it out later; my choice is already made.”

Duck mode was instrumental for me during those initial weeks, and it still remains a part of my routine.

Surprisingly, most of my friends have been supportive. A few have even decided to join me. One friend is now six months sober, while another is exploring The Alcohol Experiment. They’ve noticed my transformation, and it has sparked their curiosity.

My Current Mindset

I no longer say, “I’m never drinking again.” Instead, I say, “I’m not drinking today.” That subtle change has a significant impact.

I also don’t keep track of days. I don’t monitor how long it’s been since I quit gluten or dairy—why treat alcohol differently? It has simply become another thing that no longer serves me. That’s how I recognize I’ve minimized its importance.

And when…
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When temptation arises, I take a moment for myself—10 minutes to breathe. I reflect on what alcohol truly brought into my life: blackouts, shame, and regret. In contrast, I focus on the benefits of moving on from it. Gradually, the urge dissipates, and the sense of freedom remains.

Advice to My Younger Self

If I could go back and speak with my younger self, I would say: You don’t need to indulge in that harmful substance to feel accepted. You are already lovable, joyful, and enough just the way you are.

Finding enjoyment without alcohol doesn’t mean losing out on anything. Instead, it opens the door to all the things I’ve always wanted: mindfulness, laughter, genuine connections, and inner peace.

I have no desire for wine or vodka. In fact, I feel no loss at all—I’ve finally gained everything I’ve ever wanted.

Share Your Experience

Are you discovering joy without alcohol through our books, the app, the podcasts, or another program at This Naked Mind? We’d love for you to share your journey with us, and inspire others along their path!

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