Congratulations and kudos- what a huge step on all levels. I’m excited for you!
When I became sober (at 22), I thought about the things I loved about drinking/various drugs and tried to just be that way. So, if at its best drinking made you feel carefree, how can you mimic that just being yourself without the use of alcohol? If weed makes you feel calm and in the moment, what do you need to do to feel that way without it? It was a fun challenge and now over a decade into it, those parts are just integrated into me.
It’s also good to explore what purpose drinking etc. served for you. It’s good to get to the root of the issue. I found for me I was playing out a ton of emotional issues with it. Each thing was either to make me feel good, or to hurt myself. It was very clear once I took a break and looked closely. Personally, I wasn’t planning on being sober. Once I stopped and saw it all clearly I just never wanted to again.
Have something non alcoholic to have on you where there’s alcohol. Remind yourself of the reason you’re staying sober. I generally avoided anywhere with alcohol for a while, but it seems that might not be something you can do. If you need to leave, LEAVE. Even if to just get some fresh air and reground yourself.
It’s a journey but sober life can be lots of fun! Best of luck!!!
