Embracing Life Without Wine: Susan’s Journey to Sobriety

Did you realize that stress can transform a casual habit into a nightly necessity? This is what occurred with Susan, who found herself consuming a bottle of wine each evening after caring for her son during his leukemia treatment. Although she made numerous attempts to reduce her intake, breaking free from this cycle proved difficult. However, reading This Naked Mind inspired a change within her, and through The Path, she gained the support and tools she needed to finally declare, “I’m ready to quit my wine habit.” Today, Susan is living a life full of hope and enthusiasm, free from alcohol.

How Drinking Became a Habit

Raised in a Christian Scientist household, alcohol was never a part of my upbringing. Neither my parents nor anyone else in our home drank. However, this changed when I turned 16 and began drinking at parties with friends. At that time, it didn’t feel concerning. Everyone my age was doing it, and I thought nothing of it.

I still vividly remember my 16th birthday. I had my first real taste of alcohol—a can of Colt 45—and my friends ended up having to walk me around the block multiple times in the rain, while I was dressed in white slacks, before I could finally get home. Looking back on it now, it’s hard not to chuckle at how ridiculous it was, but it marked the beginning of an unexpected journey.

The Role of Stress and Family in My Wine Consumption

Approximately a decade ago, my relationship with alcohol shifted. My husband and I were in the process of selling our family business, which was incredibly taxing. Most evenings, we would dine out, and the night typically started with a few drinks at the bar. Gradually, I found myself drinking wine every night as a coping mechanism. Initially, it felt harmless, but it soon turned into a pattern that I couldn’t break.

Three years ago, things took a serious turn in my life. My son was diagnosed with ALL Leukemia at the age of 40. He had a family—his wife and young son—along with an immense battle ahead. When he asked me to be his primary caregiver, I immediately agreed. I moved closer to the hospital to be there for him during his treatment. However, the stress of caregiving was overwhelming. After he would go to bed each night, I relied on a bottle of wine to help me relax. It became my crutch, my escape from the unbearable situation.

Eventually, I tried to cut back on my wine consumption. I recognized that my habit was not beneficial, yet I struggled to free myself from it.

Finding a Path to Liberation

A year ago, I came across This Naked Mind by Annie Grace. This book provided me with a new perspective on alcohol. Although my sister had been sober for 20 years through AA, I didn’t feel that approach was suitable for me. I didn’t want to label myself as “hopeless.” I desired to tackle this change with curiosity and kindness, rather than shame or judgment.

While reading the book piqued my interest, I was still not prepared to let go of my wine habit. In January 2023, I experimented with The Alcohol Experiment, which was beneficial, but I didn’t fully commit. Then, in August 2024, everything changed. I engaged in Annie’s 5-Day Challenge, which provided the motivation and resources I needed to progress. By September 2024, I joined The Path program, where the real transformation began.

Seeking to Manage Alcohol?

Quitting her wine consumption became a reality for Susan with the Control Alcohol Challenge! You, too, can take control of your alcohol consumption! Click the button below to begin your journey right now!

Ready to Let Go of My Wine Habit: Achieving Freedom Through The Path

In The Path program, I discovered guidance, encouragement, and a community of individuals who understood my struggles. It wasn’t just about willpower or forcing a change. It was about comprehending my relationship with alcohol and naturally finding a way to let it go. For the first time, I genuinely felt prepared to quit my wine habit and embrace a life without alcohol.

The results have been remarkable. I’ve managed to reduce my drinking in a manner that feels effortless, and the prospect of complete liberation from alcohol no longer intimidates me. Instead, it fills me with excitement. I belong to an amazing community that supports me and reminds me why this journey is meaningful.

Awakening Insights and Valuable Lessons

This past Thanksgiving marked a significant moment for me. Traditionally, holidays were filled with stress and triggers, but this year was a refreshing change. The only time I thought about alcohol was at…
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It was around 11:00 am when I found myself immersed in a whirlwind of cooking. The thought of having a drink briefly crossed my mind, but it faded just as quickly. The day turned out to be delightful, filled with laughter, family time, and the joy of our beloved grand-dogs. That evening, I went to bed without a drink, drifting off peacefully—no need for wine.

Reflecting on my past, I wish I could share some insights with my younger self. First, embrace self-love—genuinely and completely. Secondly, gently question your choices. What prompts you to reach for that glass of wine? Are you trying to escape something or dull your senses? Most importantly, remember that there is always a healthier alternative available.

Looking Forward

As I move forward in this journey, there is a sense of hope and anticipation within me. I’m not just prepared to let go of my wine habit; I’m also ready to welcome a life filled with joy, freedom, and clarity. There’s an abundance of positive experiences ahead, and I appreciate every single step I’m taking.

If you find yourself contemplating whether you’re ready to break free from your wine habit, remember it’s never too late to start. Whether you choose to read a book, join a program, or take a moment for personal reflection, the opportunity for growth is there for you. You don’t need to face this journey alone, nor do you have to have everything figured out. Take it one step at a time and believe that you are capable of achieving far more than you might think.

Share Your Experience

If our books, app, podcasts, or any program from This Naked Mind have supported you in overcoming your wine habit, we encourage you to share your experience here. Your story can inspire others on their own journey!