May 27, 2026
Reader,
Freedom is a decision.
And even when you don't think you've got this -You’ve got this.
As we move past the Memorial Day weekend and step into summer, this season can become a turning point.
Summer brings more gatherings, vacations, patio nights, BBQs, and more social pressure around drinking. But all of this can also become the perfect opportunity to pause and ask yourself:
What if this summer looked different?
What if this was the season you started feeling better, sleeping better, thinking clearer, and reconnecting with yourself and God in a deeper way?
You don’t have to wait until “rock bottom” or until January 1st to make a change. Sometimes freedom begins with one simple decision or a thought: I want something different.
If you’re feeling that pull toward change, these 7 things/ideas might help you begin walking toward freedom from alcohol - one thoughtful decision at a time.
#1 - Stop Focusing on Forever
One of the biggest things that kept me stuck was thinking I had to figure out the rest of my life all at once. Our minds will take us on an emotional ride! Thoughts about- How will I go on vacation without alcohol?or How will I attend weddings and toast the couple?
I want you to know that You don’t!
Just focus on today. One decision at a time. One hour at a time if needed. One event at a time! Freedom is built in small daily choices.
#2 - Change Your Routine
If drinking always happens at a certain time or in certain situations, your brain and body begin to expect it.
So, you need to create new routines.
Go for a walk. Listen to worship music. Make tea. Journal. Work out. Get intouch with your breath. Call a friend. These examples of nervous system regulation. Your healing begins by interrupting old patterns of reaching for a drink and replacing it with true life-giving ones.
#3 - Don’t Do It Alone
Isolation keeps you and me stuck!
Community brings healing, encouragement, accountability, and most importantly hope. One of the most powerful things you can do is talk to someone safe who understands what you’re walking through.
You were never meant to carry your burdens alone.
#4 - Learn Your Triggers
Awareness changes everything.
We all feel stress, loneliness, times of exhaustion, conflict, celebration, anxiety, and trauma.
And for many of you reading this alcohol became the “solution” we reach for when our nervous system feels overwhelmed. Learning your triggers helps you respond differently instead of reacting automatically.
#5 - Renew Your Mind Daily
Freedom starts in your mind.
So many of us live under shame, self-condemnation, and negative thought patterns. I was trapped in this cycle for nearly a decade! Playing the game of moderation. But God calls us to renew our minds with His truth.
“Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” — Romans 12:2
The thoughts you rehearse are the thoughts you will believe. And what you believe shapes your identity. What do you want to believe about yourself?
#6 - Learn To Regulate Your Nervous System
This was huge for me!
You and I are/were not lacking willpower when it comes to letting go of alcohol! We are/were living with a dysregulated nervous system and we were using alcohol as the easy button to numb, calm down, escape, or cope.
What real healing and regulation looks like:
Slowing down
Praying and spending time with God
Getting enough sleep
Moving your body - stretching, walking, etc.
Getting sunlight
Nature
Breath-work - so many choices!
Touching the earth with your bare hands or feet
I could continue this list, but just think back to your childhood and think about what you use to enjoy.
You have to replace artificial dopamine with natural dopamine.
Your mind, body, and spirit needs more support, not more self shaming.
#7 - Remember What You Gain
When you let go of alcohol, you are choosing your life. A better life. Will it be different? YES! Will it feel awkward at first? Of course, just like when you learned to ride a bike. Remember that? Overtime, it will feel more natural. You will GAIN confidence! You will GAIN a new rhythm!
Other things you will gain:
Better sleep (overtime)
Clearer thinking
Peace
Confidence
Connection
Energy
Your Health
Joy
Freedom
There is joy on the other side of alcohol!
If you’re struggling right now, remember this: you are not weak, broken, lacking willpower, or beyond hope. Change is possible. Healing is possible. And you do not have to do this alone!
Also, this Saturday, I'm offering a free Zoom call at 9 am CT. I'll be talking about these 7 ideas. If you are interested reply to this email and I'll send you the link.
Peace & Joy,
👉 Sign up here for a free discovery call where we can talk through where you are, what you’re struggling with, and whether the Choose Freedom™ Group Coaching or 1:1 coaching would support you in this season.
There’s no pressure—just a conversation.
For more tips and inspiration, follow me on Instagram @joyontheothersideofalcohol.
