Why I’m Taking a Break from Alcohol: My Dry January Journey 🍷❌

Oh yes. It’s that time again. Time to take a break from alcohol for a while.

I’ve done this a few times before, and every time I’ve loved the results. My first streak was 72 days, the next was 4 months, then 7 months, and now… well, who knows? I wouldn’t say I have a problem with alcohol—I’m not an alcoholic. But I’ve come to realize how much it controls my life when I’m in relation to it.

some delicious and pricey cocktails in Costa Rica

Don’t get me wrong, I love drinking. There’s something so fun about sharing a drink with friends at a bar or enjoying a glass of wine after a long day. I love meeting strangers, sipping a cocktail, and relaxing with good company. But I’ve started noticing the downsides of drinking, and I can’t ignore them any longer.

1. The Cost of Alcohol

First, there’s the price. Drinks are expensive, especially when you’re out at a bar. $15 for one cocktail? And that’s before you even think about the extra costs of late-night food and snacks. Honestly, when I think about how much I’ve spent over time just on alcohol and food, it adds up to a significant amount. Sure, I’ve justified it before with the idea that it’s worth it for the memories and socializing, but lately, I can’t justify it anymore.

What I’d rather spend my money on are things that truly matter to me—like travel, creating lasting memories, and forming deep, meaningful connections. For that reason, I’m choosing to say goodbye to alcohol. It’s all about prioritizing what I value most.

can't have a lemon drop martini without a gold rim in Napa

2. The Dreaded Hangover

Next up—the hangover. I’m sure most of us have experienced the dreaded feeling of sluggishness and fatigue the day after drinking. Even when it’s not too severe, it still zaps my energy and motivation. And when the hangover is bad? Ugh, it’s rarely worth it. Wasting a day feeling sick because I chose to poison my body the night before? I’m done with that cycle.

3. The Physical Effects

And then there are the physical effects. Recently, I went through a little drinking phase, and I saw the consequences right away. My body felt inflamed, I gained weight, and my skin looked dull and tired. I had puffier cheeks, a few more wrinkles on my face, and my digestive system wasn’t happy with me either. Maybe this is a little vain, but I like to feel and look good. I want my body to be fit and healthy, and drinking just didn’t align with that goal.

So for all these reasons, I’ve decided to say "see you later" to alcohol—for now, at least.

puffy cheeks after my birthday bender whoops lol

My Dry January Journey

As of now, I’ve been alcohol-free for over 12 days, having started my Dry January early. Already, I can feel the difference in my body and my mindset. I feel lighter, more focused, and more connected to my goals.

While I love this phase of life, I know that I’ll likely drink again someday. And that’s okay! Maybe I’ll never drink again—who knows? But for now, I’m enjoying being booze-free, and I’m excited to share this journey with others.

Join Me for Dry January!

If you’re thinking about participating in Dry January, I’d love for you to join me! I’ve created a Facebook group called Untethered Souls, where I’ll be hosting monthly personal growth challenges to build a community of like-minded souls who are ready to grow and evolve. If you’d like to join, I’d be thrilled to have you there!

Happy (almost) New Year! 🎉

Love,

Sasha

Starbucks probably isn't much better 😅