Another brilliant & very personal video, well done for posting this....My wife died of alcoholism in 2022, I came very close to following her path...you have helped prompt me to rethink my choices throughout the last few months, I'll be out there on the bike again very soon. Huge respect Chris.
If you’re open to it. I’d love to chat with you privately. Your comment struck a chord. I believe this is the first public comment I’ve left in nearly a decade. I’m sorry for your loss and I’m inspired by your perseverance.
I’m three weeks away from celebrating one year alcohol free. Congratulations Chris. I mirror your thoughts on not particularly feeling transformatively ‘better’ so I instead describe the ‘absence of negatives’ as technically being positives. I think of the great weekend rides I haven’t missed because I wasn’t hungover. Or the great weekends I’ve given my nephew in place of a bike ride because I haven’t been dying in bed after drinking. I took all the pint money I didn’t spend and bought a nice watch that I will now always associate with quitting alcohol. There are lots of bog little details. People expect you to say your life just changed overnight but that’s just not the case. We quit for different reasons therefore we all experience different outcomes. Best of luck.
Thank you and congratulations to you, too! The absence of negatives really is how I would describe it. That's a good way of seeing it. I hope you continue to enjoy it too!
Yes, not loosing weekends is a huge gain for me as well. Soo much time..... though I try not to regret. As one Gabor wrote: "Respect the decisions made along the way...."
It’s wonderful to hear someone detail it so well. 1. Better sleep 2. Bigger difference in sleep consistency 3. Freshness 4. Production of better power numbers 5. Healthier muscle & physical stress levels 6. Emotionally better psychologically Your synopsis was perfection!!! We ride with a club, nobody drinks, except coffee stops!
Chris thanks so much for your candidness and courage. This is such a blessing for others that do struggle. I am a counsellor that works with people that abuse alcohol. And one of my best friends has suffered from the effects- keep going and keep finding other things - healthier ways to take breaks and rest- a balance of pushing forward and rest/self care can help create balance and peace - we all need goals and them time to bask in the moment of rest
Funny... I've been considering dropping alcohol for similar reasons in terms of mindfulness, my impact/influence on people I love and to move to a better version of myself. You've encouraged me to make the change. Thank you for your honest words and sensible advice. (Really weird that you would pop up in my feed right at this point!). Best of good fortune to you for 2023.
Good job! When your nervous system has alcohol put into it and then it leaves the nervous system overreacts making you feel more nervous that's why physical addiction eventually happens because the cells in your body are more accustomed to having the booze in it than not...
I am a cyclist and recovering alcoholic. Your video is very inspiring. I am exactly one year behind you and I look forward to getting to where you are today. Thank you for sharing. Keep posting your journey.
Chris the algorithm brought me to this video. My daughter is a recovering addict, just celebrated 1 year in Sept. She works at it everyday and we are so proud of her. Keep up the great work and continue sharing your story there are many people that need help out there!!
Hi Chris, I’m 7 months in and my experience is exactly the same. There’s no instant magic bullet, but you do change over time. You don’t notice it, but the people around you do. I’m definitely a better person (and a few kilos lighter). Unfortunately my cycling doesn’t seem to have improved much though 😂 I’m planning a ride down to Cornwall from Staffordshire at Whistsun, so will definitely not be drinking until then. Keep up the good work 👍🏻
Hi Chris , I am a cyclist as well and in July 2020 I gave up alcohol just to see what changes I would feel. The first 3 months I really didn't feel much change at all. I thought I would lose some weight but I did not. But after the 3 months several things did change. Better sleep, better recovery from workouts, a clearer head, blood pressure dropped 15 points systolic and best of all my wife said I was much nicer to be around. I think I handle life's up and downs better and with less stress and concern and I am just a better person. I had no withdrawal and do not miss alcohol. For me it was simply a habit that I swapped for drinking tea instead. After 2.5 years without alcohol, I have no thoughts of returning to it. I have a better life in every way and more money in my pocket. Thanks for sharing your experience and I hope my experience will benefit someone else as well. Cheers mate.
Congrats on 1 year Chris! I'm 18 years without a drink, and I think the toughest thing for me in the beginning was finding something to do with all the time I wasn't spending drinking! I had never realized how many hours per day I was sitting on a bar stool after work, or hanging with friends at someone's house and drinking. Filling that void was something I had to do. Anyway, keep up the great work and keep motivating others to do the same.
Chris, this is incredibly inspiring to me, as I begin a similar journey TODAY. I've noticed that the alcohol is THE THING that holds me back from peak fitness, peak mental clarity and being the best husband and father that I can be. All of the things that you've highlighted in the video are both byproducts and benefits that I'm hoping to gain. Thanks for the great message and the inspiration to take this challenge head on and with enthusiasm.
Thank you. Wishing you the very best with your goal. I spent a lot of time and energy convincing myself I would do it before trying and I found that really helped. Some days might be easy, some might be hard. But you can get through it no matter what, just by believing in what it is you want to achieve.💪💪
How do you even have kids without realising that first?... god people need to stop having children until they're at least aware that alcohol is fucking bad.
I am a triathlete. And used to drink quite heavily, especially when my mental health issues were alarming, and/or in the weekend. Which caused me to skip my long rides and runs in the weekends due to tiredness, anxiety, and sickness. Which caused my spiralling down of getting abusive towards myself. I can be real harsh, and calling myself all kind of names if things don't go as I want, sometimes even demands from myself. Which is a nice paradox in itself. However, I am 2 weeks sober today. I tried to stop many times, but this time feels different. I immediately picked up my healthy diet, rythem in sleep, and cleaning again and all of that work already pays off. As you (Chris) said. It is really hard work, but for me, that hard work will pay out with mental tranquillaty, calm and peace on the long end. Also, making healthier decisions becomes easier to me. Especially when I don't feel like doing a workout that has been planned. For example, I should go out for a swim today, but I'd rather fancy a bikeride on zwift, or just a restday, which I now think is okay especially since I've done all of the hard work of this past week. Only a month ago I would force myself to the pool to only get a frustrated session in, or just stay at home with an hangover to only get really mad at myself in the evening, which wouldn't help either. But when I start drinking again, I definitaly will spiral again, real quick, which will jeopordize my dreams of becoming an Ironman, which I will not let happen. IWNDWYT!
Been dry since Oct of 2021. Made the change for myself and my family. It has been one of my proudest achievements along with quitting nicotine and caffeine. Most of all, I love that I made the decision on my own without any outside pressure. I don’t write this to seek approval or praise, but rather to give other people the idea that alcohol doesn’t have to be a part of your life. I ran into an old friend months before I quit, and he told me that both him and his wife quit drinking to save their marriage. That resonated with me and helped me realize that I was on the wrong path. Anyways, if you quit alcohol, let people know (not in a conceited way). You might indirectly give someone the courage to look in the mirror and get their life back on track.
Very brave and noble of you to share your story. I myself had a terrible accident on a motorcycle in 2015. I've been substance free since that time and although nothing can stop time, I feel that regular walks and bike rides can do nothing but help. The money saved alone can allow for nice bike upgrades. My personal trick initially to avoid falling back in was to think on how much better my next days ride will be with a clear mind and good rest. Also know that there is no perfect plan but my father gave me some great advice - "The key to happiness is to always have something to look forward to". Its simple, effective and what I do.
I used to drink to feel “normal”, to hide my problems, the depressions and the anxieties I had. Drinking was the only thing that seemed to hide these problems for a few brief hours. But I had no “off” button. I couldn’t just have a drink or two, and then stop. I had to drink until I was obliterated, smashed. Then the hangovers the next day were horrendous, having hardly any sleep and dehydrated to levels which were surely dangerous to anyone. I remember walking to work every day feeling like I was walking through treacle. Everything in my life was a negative, there was no motivation, no drive, no hunger. I couldn’t be bothered with anything. Everyone would annoy me, including close friends and family, and the only way to overcome this negativity was by drinking again. Not caring that this was in fact adding to the problems. I secretly knew deep down that the drink was one of the problems, but I would lie to myself that I had to drink to numb the mental and emotional problems I was suffering. In the end it become to much and after a lot of negative thoughts, I had to make a choice, get help or end it all. I choose to get help. It’s been a few years now and after medication for depression /anxiety, and counselling (which I didn’t even realize I needed) I am now a changed person. I look at alcohol in a whole different way today, as a poison. A poison so dangerous that people don’t realize the damage they are doing to themselves and to those around them. Unfortunately, society and marketing has a lot to do with this, but If I can help out, even just a little, then the turning point for me was this book which I would highly recommend “Stop Drinking Alcohol: Alcohol Lied to Me. By Craig Beck”. (You can get a free trial on Audible for 30days, stick in some headphones and go for a long walk and listen, listen like you have never listened before) Good luck everyone!
Going on 31 this year and year 3 of no alcohol .after watching this I feel like you are in the same boat as so many of us out there in the way that we are our own worst enemies and our own biggest critics and a lot of the pressures and stresses do come from within our own expectations of ourselves. Thanks for this video Chris we need more honesty like this on social media outlets. Not everything is sunshine and rainbows and that’s ok.
Chris, coming up on 39 years alcohol free myself, it gets better as time goes. I loved the editing here as it showed the rawness of still coming to grips with the emotional side, the realization that alcohol can be a lifelong struggle. You are absolutely correct though when you say, it's others around you who see the difference. Be well. Ride hard. Love your family. It's all good, there is zero downside.
I was forced away from alcohol due to pancreatitis. You’re “I don’t trust myself to regulate sentinment” really resonated with me. I’m honestly grateful that I’m medically unable to drink because it takes so much strength to quit on your own. Congratulations, you’re amazingly strong and it will get easier. Great video, great message
The fact that you have taken affirmative action from understanding an unhealthy relationship says volumes about your character and sober personality. Celebrate the achievement, as you have rightfully identified taking control of one issue is empowering you to deal with others. Long may that continue.
You are very brave Chris. You are also not alone with your struggles. Addiction isn't something that can be cured. But the positive outcomes of your sobriety will become the strength to stop you from returning to your old ways. When you feel low, just hold fast and remember all the good things that have come from your efforts, and bit by bit, you will take back control ❤️👍Happy New Year to you and your lovely family!
@@chrisopie87 step by step and bike length by bike length is the journey completed. This is a lifelong mission and the end product is a genuine you.The best you ever. Al my hopes and wishes go with you and all of us that struggle with burdens. All the best for 2023
I had alcohol dependency when I was younger, it took a harrowing experience for me to stop. It was really bloody difficult, especially at a young age when your friends are all going out and you can't. It took about ten years before I could attempt to drink, and regulate what I was consuming, and that was a lot of thanks to my wife. Your summary kind of mirrors what I found too. I'm glad it's had a positive change, for you and your family ☺️
Hi Chris, please do not be disappointed at having to admit any personal truth. I have struggled with this in the past and decided to stop in 1989. My children have never seen me drunk and at any time,day or night I could drive my family for any emergency. You are doing a great thing and admitting your problems is part of the process of learning to love yourself and your family above any other considerations. I am so proud of you to be able to do this on a public platform. Well done Chris and stick with it. Maturity comes with sobriety, and you will make better decisions in that state of being. I did not seek help but in hindsight it may have been better to. Whichever way you manage it the important thing to remember is to face sober and never go back for the love of family and friends and everyone that supports and encourages and interacts with you
Chris, congratulations on recognizing a problem and having the strength to remedy it! Awesome to hear the great results that you're reaping from it..... definitely inspirational 😊👍
This is a really wonderful and candid chat - thanks Chris. I'm so pleased that you've been able to get the feedback and reassurance from your family as well as doing this for your own sake. Happy new year!
Hi Chris. I started commuter cycling last year, and saw your videos when I started bingeing on GNC videos. I wouldn’t have known about your struggles. Seeing this video is a boost for my alcohol free 2023. I am nearly 45 and have been drinking heavily since I was 17. I quit for a year in my late twenties but about 9 months in, my mum encouraged me to have an occasional drink when we were on holiday together. After that, I started drinking again, in what I thought was a controlled way. After about three months I was back to my old ways and for a number of years it was very bad, and caused money, work and relationship troubles. I cut down when I met my now wife and even more so when we had a child but with these responsibilities, even drinking far less is still an issue because when I do drink, I don’t stop. What you said about being aware of your relationship with alcohol not changing after a year alcohol free reminded me of me previous relapse, and I need to keep this in mind at the end of 2023, and think about where I shall go from there. Thanks for this video, and keep going.
Good video. I must admit myself that last year for me was bit worse with alcohol. Trained close to 900 hours and at the same time my alcohol consumption rose and likely messed up with my Zwift-race season which was supposed to be when i actualize my past years of training. I do count my alcohol consumption and mark them into my training diary to keep track and also have Polar Vantage which records my sleep and heart rate in sleep. Alcohol has clear negative effect for anyone wondering. Paradoxically what i've noticed is that i don't drink as much in one instance, but i drink more over time, typically couple beers or shots. And what i miss is clarity got from spending several weeks sober. Now even two weeks without a drink seems daunting. Your video is definedly one of those which makes me think of quitting.
Thank you. That is a high training load, and I'm sure it helps you manage your intake I'm some way. Good luck with everything you decide moving forward!!
Top video mate, admitting to yourself and everyone a "weakness" is stronger than someone who thinks they have none - whether it be behavioural or substance or otherwise. This and previous candid, open videos and podcasts will benefit many...
Just made 24 years alcohol free. 72 and still cycling. Life improves the way the sun moves across the sky: imperceptible moment by moment. But undeniable over time. And your acquaintances usually notice before you will. I am still a rather flawed person but the road of my life is infinitely smoother without alcohol. Great video, brother! Thank you!
I couldn't have put it better. I have been thinking the same and was going to do it anyway but I defiantly am going to now. I have also worked out that going for a 50 mile ride is a better stress reliever than 5 cans of lager.
Hey Chris, just wanted to say a really well done at being able to stick with being Alcohol free in 2022, it sounds like it has been a tough journey to go through to realise that your relationship with alcohol isn't a healthly one and that for yourself at the moment you need to keep the disaplin of being alcohol free. I know that here in the UK going without alchol can be a really difficult path to take but I am really glad to hear that you have been able to keep this up. I can totally appreciate how easy it is to turn to alcohol to help when going through hard times having experienced that both in my own life and seen it also in those close to me how it can really be a hindrance to being able to tackle the things in life which need done. I really hope that 2023 continues on a really positive note for you and I trust that you can keep dealing with the troubles in life in a more productive and positive way. Really appreciate your honesty on a tough subject and respect you for talking about both the difficult times you have had with mental health and also with your relationship to alcohol. Man that looks a really wet ride there... almost as bad as we have had here for New Year! Hope that it was a fun time with Meike. Do you think that more events for the 2 of you might be on the horizon for the new year? If Meike cares to share how things have been going with her own cycling journey would love to hear! All the best to you all.
Thanks for being so honest Chris. I think I'm slowly starting to realise I have a similar problem, but with food. You definitely gave me something to think about.
I gave up dranking on June 21 2021, on my 45th b-day. Hit day 570 this week. 20 years+ beer drinker, cyclist, etc - no regrets about my drinking days. Much better life without the booze in the mix. Great chat here.
Great vid Chris - thanks. As someone who has abused alcohol since their 20s (and equally battered themselves through extreme exercise to temporarily make themselves feel better) I understand your position completely. I’m just about to embark on my own no booze effort (for as long as it takes to reappraise my relationship with alcohol) so your words this morning have hit the spot. Thanks and well done over the last year. Matt
Hey Chris, happy new year and well done with a great milestone on your journey. The occasion challenges in life will only make us all better and stronger human beings. Congratulations, hard work pays off and you have proved it.
So pleased that you've tackled 2022 head on and seen progress, takes a big person to accept faults and try to make a better version of themselves. I've enjoyed watching the past 12 months videos, and I also know how much stress it is takes making them also! All the best for 2023 Chris & if you are ever in Lincolnshire region and fancy a ride drop me a line.
Thank you Tom! It is really appreciated you took the time to message. Wishing you a happy new year and 2023! There's a small chance I'll be there at some point this year 😅
Happy new year Chris you have my full respect in even admitting you have an issue with alcohol that is the start and it is good that you know within yourself that you still have an issue with it. There is nothing like an open and honest approach to life and family, I have had similar issues over my life not with alcohol but an other addiction and not drug related but there are many vices that people use to get their mind off problems and stressful situations. And it is good you have opened up about it hopefully it will help someone else. Keep up the good work in the channel and I hope you and your family have a wonderful 2023.
Chris - nothing else to add from all the other fantastic and moving comments I've read here. Thank you so much for sharing your story, it helps me and a lot more people more than you could realise. Here's to a wonderful 2023 for you and your family 😃
So good to hear the positive effect this has had on not only you, your fitness and mind, but to your lovely family too - well done for sticking at it and recognising it had to be done. All the best for your continued sobriety and I very much look forward to training with you and Meike again this year ❤
Stumbled upon your video and am glad I did! You put into words my thoughts and what I went through before I did just like you and decided to distance myself from alcohol. Now it's been 3 1/2 years since I took that step in life and just like you have come to that conclusion regarding my relationship with alcohol. Today I am incredibly proud of myself and happy for all the support from loved ones and will not start drinking alcohol again and I feel calm and confident in that decision. I wish you all the best, will follow you in the future and be inspired! Happy New Year!
Fantastic Chris, and congratulations on 12 months! I recently came to a similar conclusion myself and the way you describe it is spot on. Off for a hangover free New Year’s Day ride now! All the best for 2023 🎉
It's good to hear this. Whilst I'm 26 and often labeled as a boring guy because i don't go out drinking with friends, for me it has been the right choice to stop drinking. I wish more people would talk about the benefits of giving up alcohol, especially in the UK where drinking is a social norm.
Wonderfully honest and insightful Chris. We need more of this content in the world, thank you. Happy new year to you, Meike and family. Hope to catch you on Zwift soon too! Love R
Well done Chris keep it going. I find myself that I struggle to be positive about things most of the time which I find frustrating and people around me definitely do. Hopefully this year I can change.
Morning Chris thought you might upload today, just got back from my first ride of the new year. Really enjoyed it but wind was brutal. Congratulations on completing your goal regards to the alcohol and in the future as well. Think I speak for everybody on here saying thank you for the inspiration and motivation from the videos and wish you all the best for the new year.
Thank you Chris. This is the kind of talk we all need at the start of 2023. Truly heartfelt and inspirational. Regardless of who we are, there's always things we could/should change. And like you alluded to, we should not just think of ourselves, but must also think of our family, friends, etc. Moreover, doing this can provide greater strength and motivation. Happy New Year to You, the Misses and children. 👍💯💯👏👍👌👌
Awesome, candid and inspiring video. Tough to make no doubt but I’m glad you have found the courage to inspire others! Have a fantastic 2023. I wish you every success in all that you do. Consider please, a similar update same time next year. Stay healthy!
Fantastic! Lots of wise words. I am fortunate that I have never enjoyed alcohol, but I think your comments can equally apply to all sorts of other fixations or habits. It is all about admission, commitment, and effort, and deciding what the most important things/people are in your life. Thank you for continuing to share your experiences.
Thanks Chris, genuinely moving and inspiring. Like you, I've never experienced the life-changing improvements that others describe from giving up alcohol, but I now feel moved to extend dry January and focus on the 'lack of negatives' (as one of your other commenters put it). Best wishes.
Hi Chris, Happy New Year from Boston! Thx for sharing your story with us all. You exemplify the simple reality of change processes: insight does not motivate action--it is action that generates insight. We see this in every aspect of our lives. The search for why we have a problem does not result in action to change. It is the decision to do something different and create a new pattern of behavior that helps us understand why we had the problem. That’s where you seem to be. You took action and now your starting to figure it out. “Commit then figure it out” is my mantra. All the best for 2023!!!
Good on you Chris. It's admirable, your achievement. I took up cycling more seriously in 2020 when lockdown gave me loads of free time, and I dropped some 50 lbs of weight and felt tremendous. But I've slipped back into bad habits of poor eating and lethargy. It's good to hear your story of discipline when contending with something that's clearly difficult for you. The point about doing it for others, rather than just yourself, is salient as well. All the best for the coming year.
Thank you and a huge congratulations!! Any type of sustained and significant weight loss is one of the toughest challenges and accomplishments you can attain as a human!! Wishing you the very best moving forward!
I watched your vlog a year ago, so pleased you stuck at it. I stopped drinking alcohol six years ago when trying for a family, then this bundle of joy turns up and never bothered starting again. No regrets. Save money on alcohol, spend a little more on coffee! Happy New Year to you and the family.
I gave up alcohol 4 years ago January 1st 2020.the best thing I have done. I am a better person. I agree with what you say, Chris. Just life is so much better. My health is better and my head is so much better. Thanks Chris for posting this❤
Chris, don't be disappointed that you've had to admit what you have done, be proud that you can acknowledge it, that you're making efforts to change it and that you're inspiring others! All the best for 2023!
Very, very well done Chris. Had a similar conversation with some close friends only a handful of days ago. As you say, regardless of the vice, share and talk it through with others. Ask for support and be there to support. Top bloke!
Chris this video really hit home with me as I had a problem with drink and after hitting rock bottom I completely gave up and must say it’s the best thing I’ve ever done 👌 in fact I did try a bit to see how it felt and honestly hated it so please stick it out because you and those around you will reap the benefits x
Inspirational and very honest 👏 I've taken alot from this and will apply it to my life this year, at 55 years young I'm not looking for performance gains but gains as a person will definitely benefit my family.
I began my alcohol free journey 367 days ago. Every time I'm in a situation where others are drinking I ask myself if alcohol will benefit me in any way whatsoever. So far in the last year there hasn't been one situation. I'm 55 BTW 🙂
👍 My reason for giving up alcohol was actually because I discovered that I have other addictions (such as endorphins from cycling 😏). Also, in my 40's my brain is slowly degrading and I don't want to accelerate this process. Happy New Year 🎉
I also crave those same endorphins from cycling/running and the caffeine I get from coffee. Stopped drinking one day 24yrs ago after seeing bad things happening to family, friends and myself. Don’t miss hangovers….
Hey Chris I’ve struggled with alcohol abuse my self, 7 months sober now! It’s honestly the best thing I’ve ever done! But at the end of the day I still struggle everyday with cravings etc. This was a great video to watch because I can relate so much! Happy new years and good luck with your sober journey!
It’s really hard to admit that stopping drinking won’t suddenly solve a negative relationship with alcohol. I too continue to abstain for this reason. Great job on the effort and thank you for your openness, it helps a lot of us.
Well done on achieving the significant milestone and sharing your journey. I did dry January a few years ago. The first 3 weeks were the hardest, but sleep definitely improves, weight drops, your mood improves significantly and food cravings go away. Today is my 5th year of not drinking and I just wish I’d stopped earlier, it would have saved a lot of money and stress!
Thank you and Happy New Year to you. I found taking it week by week and then month by month worked for me, rather than just setting a hard date target. Replacing alcohol with alternatives was also important in breaking the habit. You just need to find what works for you. Keep up the great work and all the best.
Hi Chris, a brave post and great timing - I’m actually starting a 3 month period of alcohol free, and intend to ‘see what it becomes’ - perhaps I’ll do the whole year. Too much to unpack here, but in short, I identify with a lot of what you say. Several years ago, I did 92 days alcohol free. It was the best I felt for ages. I had ‘one beer’ at Christmas, which didn’t even taste that nice, and over time I gradually slipped back to where I was. The sort of relationship with alcohol that you described. If I could go back there, I would never restart - I would just carry on. Have you listened to Adrian Chiles audiobook on moderating? I recommend listening to it, if you’re interested in the subject in general - but I would also say that the way he’s approached it doesn’t work for many people (in my view) and from my experience, it’s all or nothing for me.
Thank you for taking the time to share this, I will look for the podcast. I felt a similar experience to what you have described in 2021 after 3 months of no alcohol. That was the driving force behind the approach I have now taken. Good luck with your 3 months. I hope it helps you in the way you want it to!
Congratulations. It took me until age 61, over 6 years ago now, to quit the poison. Have never felt better! I was one who couldn't drink only 1 or 2. Good for those who can!
Another brilliant & very personal video, well done for posting this....My wife died of alcoholism in 2022, I came very close to following her path...you have helped prompt me to rethink my choices throughout the last few months, I'll be out there on the bike again very soon. Huge respect Chris.
Hang in there and consider getting to an AA meeting. It saved my life
Cycling and get into nature, go slow but just go. It's a life saver. Small steps. Best of luck.
@@MrBoggins1234 thanks...things are more stable how....just need to get back on a bike again!
If you’re open to it. I’d love to chat with you privately. Your comment struck a chord. I believe this is the first public comment I’ve left in nearly a decade. I’m sorry for your loss and I’m inspired by your perseverance.
@Saxgurugirl1 yes I'm open to talking about this...I'm back on the bike, smashed the Dragon Ride & thanks to therapy I'm nearly back on my feet again.
I’m three weeks away from celebrating one year alcohol free. Congratulations Chris. I mirror your thoughts on not particularly feeling transformatively ‘better’ so I instead describe the ‘absence of negatives’ as technically being positives.
I think of the great weekend rides I haven’t missed because I wasn’t hungover. Or the great weekends I’ve given my nephew in place of a bike ride because I haven’t been dying in bed after drinking. I took all the pint money I didn’t spend and bought a nice watch that I will now always associate with quitting alcohol. There are lots of bog little details. People expect you to say your life just changed overnight but that’s just not the case. We quit for different reasons therefore we all experience different outcomes.
Best of luck.
Thank you and congratulations to you, too! The absence of negatives really is how I would describe it. That's a good way of seeing it. I hope you continue to enjoy it too!
Honestly massive respect to people who change habit that are hurting them in the long run
Yes, not loosing weekends is a huge gain for me as well. Soo much time..... though I try not to regret. As one Gabor wrote: "Respect the decisions made along the way...."
@@bironbrunelle5186 that's a great saying.
Buying a watch is a brilliant reminder!
It’s wonderful to hear someone detail it so well.
1. Better sleep
2. Bigger difference in sleep consistency
3. Freshness
4. Production of better power numbers
5. Healthier muscle & physical stress levels
6. Emotionally better psychologically
Your synopsis was perfection!!!
We ride with a club, nobody drinks, except coffee stops!
Thank you! I hope you all continue to enjoy the coffee stops!
Like Churchill said; if you’re going through hell - keep going. It’s all temporary. Amazing how honest you are.
Chris thanks so much for your candidness and courage. This is such a blessing for others that do struggle. I am a counsellor that works with people that abuse alcohol. And one of my best friends has suffered from the effects- keep going and keep finding other things - healthier ways to take breaks and rest- a balance of pushing forward and rest/self care can help create balance and peace - we all need goals and them time to bask in the moment of rest
Thank you. I really hope someone finds something useful in the sharing of my experiences, then the difficulties feel more worthwhile.
Funny... I've been considering dropping alcohol for similar reasons in terms of mindfulness, my impact/influence on people I love and to move to a better version of myself. You've encouraged me to make the change. Thank you for your honest words and sensible advice. (Really weird that you would pop up in my feed right at this point!). Best of good fortune to you for 2023.
Good job! When your nervous system has alcohol put into it and then it leaves the nervous system overreacts making you feel more nervous that's why physical addiction eventually happens because the cells in your body are more accustomed to having the booze in it than not...
I am a cyclist and recovering alcoholic. Your video is very inspiring. I am exactly one year behind you and I look forward to getting to where you are today. Thank you for sharing. Keep posting your journey.
Chris the algorithm brought me to this video. My daughter is a recovering addict, just celebrated 1 year in Sept. She works at it everyday and we are so proud of her.
Keep up the great work and continue sharing your story there are many people that need help out there!!
Congratulations to your daughter and to you for proudly sharing her story. Wishing you and family the very best in 2023
Hi Chris, I’m 7 months in and my experience is exactly the same. There’s no instant magic bullet, but you do change over time. You don’t notice it, but the people around you do. I’m definitely a better person (and a few kilos lighter). Unfortunately my cycling doesn’t seem to have improved much though 😂 I’m planning a ride down to Cornwall from Staffordshire at Whistsun, so will definitely not be drinking until then. Keep up the good work 👍🏻
Hi Chris , I am a cyclist as well and in July 2020 I gave up alcohol just to see what changes I would feel. The first 3 months I really didn't feel much change at all. I thought I would lose some weight but I did not. But after the 3 months several things did change. Better sleep, better recovery from workouts, a clearer head, blood pressure dropped 15 points systolic and best of all my wife said I was much nicer to be around. I think I handle life's up and downs better and with less stress and concern and I am just a better person. I had no withdrawal and do not miss alcohol. For me it was simply a habit that I swapped for drinking tea instead. After 2.5 years without alcohol, I have no thoughts of returning to it. I have a better life in every way and more money in my pocket. Thanks for sharing your experience and I hope my experience will benefit someone else as well. Cheers mate.
Congrats on 1 year Chris! I'm 18 years without a drink, and I think the toughest thing for me in the beginning was finding something to do with all the time I wasn't spending drinking! I had never realized how many hours per day I was sitting on a bar stool after work, or hanging with friends at someone's house and drinking. Filling that void was something I had to do. Anyway, keep up the great work and keep motivating others to do the same.
Chris, this is incredibly inspiring to me, as I begin a similar journey TODAY. I've noticed that the alcohol is THE THING that holds me back from peak fitness, peak mental clarity and being the best husband and father that I can be.
All of the things that you've highlighted in the video are both byproducts and benefits that I'm hoping to gain. Thanks for the great message and the inspiration to take this challenge head on and with enthusiasm.
Thank you. Wishing you the very best with your goal. I spent a lot of time and energy convincing myself I would do it before trying and I found that really helped. Some days might be easy, some might be hard. But you can get through it no matter what, just by believing in what it is you want to achieve.💪💪
Best wishes B2P stay with it your get there. Our son found the AA steps programme and Higher power very helpful in his battle with drink.
How do you even have kids without realising that first?... god people need to stop having children until they're at least aware that alcohol is fucking bad.
@@Rose333X Don't be so critical life throws all of us curve balls .
good luck, I hope all the best for you
I am a triathlete. And used to drink quite heavily, especially when my mental health issues were alarming, and/or in the weekend. Which caused me to skip my long rides and runs in the weekends due to tiredness, anxiety, and sickness. Which caused my spiralling down of getting abusive towards myself. I can be real harsh, and calling myself all kind of names if things don't go as I want, sometimes even demands from myself. Which is a nice paradox in itself. However, I am 2 weeks sober today. I tried to stop many times, but this time feels different. I immediately picked up my healthy diet, rythem in sleep, and cleaning again and all of that work already pays off. As you (Chris) said. It is really hard work, but for me, that hard work will pay out with mental tranquillaty, calm and peace on the long end. Also, making healthier decisions becomes easier to me. Especially when I don't feel like doing a workout that has been planned. For example, I should go out for a swim today, but I'd rather fancy a bikeride on zwift, or just a restday, which I now think is okay especially since I've done all of the hard work of this past week. Only a month ago I would force myself to the pool to only get a frustrated session in, or just stay at home with an hangover to only get really mad at myself in the evening, which wouldn't help either. But when I start drinking again, I definitaly will spiral again, real quick, which will jeopordize my dreams of becoming an Ironman, which I will not let happen. IWNDWYT!
Well done Chris, brilliant to see you do this. I'm 5 years no-alcohol now and don't regret it for a second :)
Thank you! And congratulations to you too!!
Been dry since Oct of 2021. Made the change for myself and my family. It has been one of my proudest achievements along with quitting nicotine and caffeine.
Most of all, I love that I made the decision on my own without any outside pressure.
I don’t write this to seek approval or praise, but rather to give other people the idea that alcohol doesn’t have to be a part of your life.
I ran into an old friend months before I quit, and he told me that both him and his wife quit drinking to save their marriage. That resonated with me and helped me realize that I was on the wrong path.
Anyways, if you quit alcohol, let people know (not in a conceited way). You might indirectly give someone the courage to look in the mirror and get their life back on track.
Very brave and noble of you to share your story. I myself had a terrible accident on a motorcycle in 2015. I've been substance free since that time and although nothing can stop time, I feel that regular walks and bike rides can do nothing but help. The money saved alone can allow for nice bike upgrades. My personal trick initially to avoid falling back in was to think on how much better my next days ride will be with a clear mind and good rest. Also know that there is no perfect plan but my father gave me some great advice - "The key to happiness is to always have something to look forward to". Its simple, effective and what I do.
Thank you for sharing this. That is a brilliant piece of advice that I will remember! Best wishes for 2023!
I used to drink to feel “normal”, to hide my problems, the depressions and the anxieties I had. Drinking was the only thing that seemed to hide these problems for a few brief hours. But I had no “off” button. I couldn’t just have a drink or two, and then stop. I had to drink until I was obliterated, smashed. Then the hangovers the next day were horrendous, having hardly any sleep and dehydrated to levels which were surely dangerous to anyone.
I remember walking to work every day feeling like I was walking through treacle. Everything in my life was a negative, there was no motivation, no drive, no hunger. I couldn’t be bothered with anything. Everyone would annoy me, including close friends and family, and the only way to overcome this negativity was by drinking again. Not caring that this was in fact adding to the problems. I secretly knew deep down that the drink was one of the problems, but I would lie to myself that I had to drink to numb the mental and emotional problems I was suffering.
In the end it become to much and after a lot of negative thoughts, I had to make a choice, get help or end it all. I choose to get help.
It’s been a few years now and after medication for depression /anxiety, and counselling (which I didn’t even realize I needed) I am now a changed person.
I look at alcohol in a whole different way today, as a poison. A poison so dangerous that people don’t realize the damage they are doing to themselves and to those around them.
Unfortunately, society and marketing has a lot to do with this, but If I can help out, even just a little, then the turning point for me was this book which I would highly recommend “Stop Drinking Alcohol: Alcohol Lied to Me. By Craig Beck”. (You can get a free trial on Audible for 30days, stick in some headphones and go for a long walk and listen, listen like you have never listened before) Good luck everyone!
Going on 31 this year and year 3 of no alcohol .after watching this I feel like you are in the same boat as so many of us out there in the way that we are our own worst enemies and our own biggest critics and a lot of the pressures and stresses do come from within our own expectations of ourselves. Thanks for this video Chris we need more honesty like this on social media outlets. Not everything is sunshine and rainbows and that’s ok.
Chris, coming up on 39 years alcohol free myself, it gets better as time goes. I loved the editing here as it showed the rawness of still coming to grips with the emotional side, the realization that alcohol can be a lifelong struggle. You are absolutely correct though when you say, it's others around you who see the difference. Be well. Ride hard. Love your family. It's all good, there is zero downside.
Congratulations !!Thank you for taking the time to say this. Wishing you all the best in 2023!
I was forced away from alcohol due to pancreatitis. You’re “I don’t trust myself to regulate sentinment” really resonated with me. I’m honestly grateful that I’m medically unable to drink because it takes so much strength to quit on your own. Congratulations, you’re amazingly strong and it will get easier. Great video, great message
The fact that you have taken affirmative action from understanding an unhealthy relationship says volumes about your character and sober personality. Celebrate the achievement, as you have rightfully identified taking control of one issue is empowering you to deal with others. Long may that continue.
Thanks for you words, there are lots of people struggling with a variety of issues. Some face them head on, some need a hand. 💪💪 Keep cycling 🚴
That is very true. I'm sure we can all do a tiny bit where we can and even that can make a difference.
You are very brave Chris. You are also not alone with your struggles. Addiction isn't something that can be cured. But the positive outcomes of your sobriety will become the strength to stop you from returning to your old ways. When you feel low, just hold fast and remember all the good things that have come from your efforts, and bit by bit, you will take back control ❤️👍Happy New Year to you and your lovely family!
Thank you, that is much appreciated!! Happy New Year!! 🎉🎊
@@chrisopie87 step by step and bike length by bike length is the journey completed. This is a lifelong mission and the end product is a genuine you.The best you ever. Al my hopes and wishes go with you and all of us that struggle with burdens. All the best for 2023
I had alcohol dependency when I was younger, it took a harrowing experience for me to stop. It was really bloody difficult, especially at a young age when your friends are all going out and you can't. It took about ten years before I could attempt to drink, and regulate what I was consuming, and that was a lot of thanks to my wife. Your summary kind of mirrors what I found too. I'm glad it's had a positive change, for you and your family ☺️
Congratulations on getting to a stage where this was possible!! That's incredibly impressive. Best wishes for the new year!
Thank you for your barebones honesty. I’m where you were this time last year. You’re an inspiration for me.
Hi Chris, please do not be disappointed at having to admit any personal truth. I have struggled with this in the past and decided to stop in 1989. My children have never seen me drunk and at any time,day or night I could drive my family for any emergency. You are doing a great thing and admitting your problems is part of the process of learning to love yourself and your family above any other considerations. I am so proud of you to be able to do this on a public platform. Well done Chris and stick with it. Maturity comes with sobriety, and you will make better decisions in that state of being. I did not seek help but in hindsight it may have been better to. Whichever way you manage it the important thing to remember is to face sober and never go back for the love of family and friends and everyone that supports and encourages and interacts with you
Chris, congratulations on recognizing a problem and having the strength to remedy it! Awesome to hear the great results that you're reaping from it..... definitely inspirational 😊👍
Thank you!! 😊
This is a really wonderful and candid chat - thanks Chris. I'm so pleased that you've been able to get the feedback and reassurance from your family as well as doing this for your own sake. Happy new year!
As someone who grew up with an alcoholic dad. Well done you for seeing this in you. Many can't or won't see it. All the best for the future.
Hi Chris. I started commuter cycling last year, and saw your videos when I started bingeing on GNC videos. I wouldn’t have known about your struggles.
Seeing this video is a boost for my alcohol free 2023. I am nearly 45 and have been drinking heavily since I was 17. I quit for a year in my late twenties but about 9 months in, my mum encouraged me to have an occasional drink when we were on holiday together. After that, I started drinking again, in what I thought was a controlled way. After about three months I was back to my old ways and for a number of years it was very bad, and caused money, work and relationship troubles. I cut down when I met my now wife and even more so when we had a child but with these responsibilities, even drinking far less is still an issue because when I do drink, I don’t stop.
What you said about being aware of your relationship with alcohol not changing after a year alcohol free reminded me of me previous relapse, and I need to keep this in mind at the end of 2023, and think about where I shall go from there.
Thanks for this video, and keep going.
Good video. I must admit myself that last year for me was bit worse with alcohol. Trained close to 900 hours and at the same time my alcohol consumption rose and likely messed up with my Zwift-race season which was supposed to be when i actualize my past years of training.
I do count my alcohol consumption and mark them into my training diary to keep track and also have Polar Vantage which records my sleep and heart rate in sleep. Alcohol has clear negative effect for anyone wondering. Paradoxically what i've noticed is that i don't drink as much in one instance, but i drink more over time, typically couple beers or shots. And what i miss is clarity got from spending several weeks sober. Now even two weeks without a drink seems daunting.
Your video is definedly one of those which makes me think of quitting.
Thank you. That is a high training load, and I'm sure it helps you manage your intake I'm some way. Good luck with everything you decide moving forward!!
Top video mate, admitting to yourself and everyone a "weakness" is stronger than someone who thinks they have none - whether it be behavioural or substance or otherwise. This and previous candid, open videos and podcasts will benefit many...
Thank you Carl!! And for your support and advice throughout the year too!
@@chrisopie87 and to you for yours, Took me all year to take your zone 2 advice 😅.
@@carlsiveyer7164 haha, better late than never!
Just made 24 years alcohol free. 72 and still cycling. Life improves the way the sun moves across the sky: imperceptible moment by moment. But undeniable over time. And your acquaintances usually notice before you will. I am still a rather flawed person but the road of my life is infinitely smoother without alcohol.
Great video, brother! Thank you!
I couldn't have put it better. I have been thinking the same and was going to do it anyway but I defiantly am going to now. I have also worked out that going for a 50 mile ride is a better stress reliever than 5 cans of lager.
Congratulations!! Good luck and enjoy. Especially the good rides!
Hey Chris, just wanted to say a really well done at being able to stick with being Alcohol free in 2022, it sounds like it has been a tough journey to go through to realise that your relationship with alcohol isn't a healthly one and that for yourself at the moment you need to keep the disaplin of being alcohol free. I know that here in the UK going without alchol can be a really difficult path to take but I am really glad to hear that you have been able to keep this up. I can totally appreciate how easy it is to turn to alcohol to help when going through hard times having experienced that both in my own life and seen it also in those close to me how it can really be a hindrance to being able to tackle the things in life which need done. I really hope that 2023 continues on a really positive note for you and I trust that you can keep dealing with the troubles in life in a more productive and positive way. Really appreciate your honesty on a tough subject and respect you for talking about both the difficult times you have had with mental health and also with your relationship to alcohol. Man that looks a really wet ride there... almost as bad as we have had here for New Year! Hope that it was a fun time with Meike. Do you think that more events for the 2 of you might be on the horizon for the new year? If Meike cares to share how things have been going with her own cycling journey would love to hear! All the best to you all.
Thank you John, it is much appreciated! Yes, Meike definitely hopes to continue her progress this year, too. And we hope to share it as well!!
Thanks for being so honest Chris. I think I'm slowly starting to realise I have a similar problem, but with food. You definitely gave me something to think about.
Thank you. Good luck with this, equally a tough battle. I hope you find an outcome that works for you
Well said, Chris. Happy New Year.
I gave up dranking on June 21 2021, on my 45th b-day. Hit day 570 this week. 20 years+ beer drinker, cyclist, etc - no regrets about my drinking days. Much better life without the booze in the mix. Great chat here.
Great vid Chris - thanks. As someone who has abused alcohol since their 20s (and equally battered themselves through extreme exercise to temporarily make themselves feel better) I understand your position completely. I’m just about to embark on my own no booze effort (for as long as it takes to reappraise my relationship with alcohol) so your words this morning have hit the spot. Thanks and well done over the last year. Matt
Thank you Matt. Wishing you the very best with this and everything in 2023. It's worth the effort and no matter how hard it gets you can do it.
Good luck Matt. Rooting for you!
Good luck Matt, stay strong 💪
Matt everything Chris said is true and you are doing a great thing for yourself and others around you.
Hey Chris, happy new year and well done with a great milestone on your journey. The occasion challenges in life will only make us all better and stronger human beings. Congratulations, hard work pays off and you have proved it.
Thank you! I do completely agree with the challenges we face, assuming we conquer them. Wishing you a healthy and happy 2023!
The honesty much appreciated
Its awesome to hear! I wish you the best moving forward!
So pleased that you've tackled 2022 head on and seen progress, takes a big person to accept faults and try to make a better version of themselves. I've enjoyed watching the past 12 months videos, and I also know how much stress it is takes making them also! All the best for 2023 Chris & if you are ever in Lincolnshire region and fancy a ride drop me a line.
Thank you Tom! It is really appreciated you took the time to message. Wishing you a happy new year and 2023! There's a small chance I'll be there at some point this year 😅
Happy new year Chris you have my full respect in even admitting you have an issue with alcohol that is the start and it is good that you know within yourself that you still have an issue with it. There is nothing like an open and honest approach to life and family, I have had similar issues over my life not with alcohol but an other addiction and not drug related but there are many vices that people use to get their mind off problems and stressful situations. And it is good you have opened up about it hopefully it will help someone else. Keep up the good work in the channel and I hope you and your family have a wonderful 2023.
Thank you for sharing Darren!! It helps to hear from others like yourself. Wishing you all the best for 2023!!
Congrats mate! Great video to watch. Best of luck to you in the new year!
Great up date, keep up the good work 👍
Chris - nothing else to add from all the other fantastic and moving comments I've read here. Thank you so much for sharing your story, it helps me and a lot more people more than you could realise. Here's to a wonderful 2023 for you and your family 😃
Thank you for taking the time to message, I'm really pleased you find it helps. Wishing you a very happy and healthy 2023!
So good to hear the positive effect this has had on not only you, your fitness and mind, but to your lovely family too - well done for sticking at it and recognising it had to be done. All the best for your continued sobriety and I very much look forward to training with you and Meike again this year ❤
Thank you Suzie!! Wishing you a happy new year and looking forward to training again soon!
Thank you and good luck in your journey!
Thanks Chris, I needed to hear this.
Stumbled upon your video and am glad I did! You put into words my thoughts and what I went through before I did just like you and decided to distance myself from alcohol. Now it's been 3 1/2 years since I took that step in life and just like you have come to that conclusion regarding my relationship with alcohol. Today I am incredibly proud of myself and happy for all the support from loved ones and will not start drinking alcohol again and I feel calm and confident in that decision. I wish you all the best, will follow you in the future and be inspired! Happy New Year!
Thank you for messaging!! And huge congratulations to you for achieving this. It sounds like a very healthy way to be. Wishing you a very happy 2023!
Fantastic Chris, and congratulations on 12 months!
I recently came to a similar conclusion myself and the way you describe it is spot on.
Off for a hangover free New Year’s Day ride now! All the best for 2023 🎉
Thank you! Hope you enjoy the ride, itching to head out myself.
Thanks for sharing Chris.
It's good to hear this. Whilst I'm 26 and often labeled as a boring guy because i don't go out drinking with friends, for me it has been the right choice to stop drinking. I wish more people would talk about the benefits of giving up alcohol, especially in the UK where drinking is a social norm.
Wonderfully honest and insightful Chris. We need more of this content in the world, thank you. Happy new year to you, Meike and family. Hope to catch you on Zwift soon too! Love R
Thank you Rich!! Wishing you and family a healthy and happy 2023. I look forward to seeing you on Zwift again soon!!
Well done Chris keep it going. I find myself that I struggle to be positive about things most of the time which I find frustrating and people around me definitely do. Hopefully this year I can change.
Thank you Paul! I find looking at things in context and with an external perspective helps me.
Congratulations to you Chris!
You the man! Stay strong & faithfull 🙏🏻
Morning Chris thought you might upload today, just got back from my first ride of the new year. Really enjoyed it but wind was brutal. Congratulations on completing your goal regards to the alcohol and in the future as well. Think I speak for everybody on here saying thank you for the inspiration and motivation from the videos and wish you all the best for the new year.
Thank you! Wishing you a happy New Year and healthy and happy 2023. Looking for to heading out for a ride myself soon.
Thank you Chris. This is the kind of talk we all need at the start of 2023. Truly heartfelt and inspirational.
Regardless of who we are, there's always things we could/should change. And like you alluded to, we should not just think of ourselves, but must also think of our family, friends, etc. Moreover, doing this can provide greater strength and motivation.
Happy New Year to You, the Misses and children. 👍💯💯👏👍👌👌
Thank you for the kind words. Wishing you a happy and healthy 2023!
Happy new year Chris, great piece of work, all 365 of them
HUGE CONGRATS!!! Huge effort mate, well done.
Awesome, candid and inspiring video. Tough to make no doubt but I’m glad you have found the courage to inspire others! Have a fantastic 2023. I wish you every success in all that you do. Consider please, a similar update same time next year. Stay healthy!
Thank you! I will definitely consider an update. Also wishing you a fantastic 2023!!
Fantastic! Lots of wise words. I am fortunate that I have never enjoyed alcohol, but I think your comments can equally apply to all sorts of other fixations or habits. It is all about admission, commitment, and effort, and deciding what the most important things/people are in your life. Thank you for continuing to share your experiences.
Thank you! I completely agree with that, it is almost certainly comparable and transferable.
That's really inspiring! Thanks for sharing and being so open about it!
great stuff Chris... thank you
Thanks Chris, genuinely moving and inspiring. Like you, I've never experienced the life-changing improvements that others describe from giving up alcohol, but I now feel moved to extend dry January and focus on the 'lack of negatives' (as one of your other commenters put it). Best wishes.
Thank you! And I really liked that suggestion as well. It feel like a more balanced view of how it really seems to feel.
Hi Chris, Happy New Year from Boston! Thx for sharing your story with us all. You exemplify the simple reality of change processes: insight does not motivate action--it is action that generates insight. We see this in every aspect of our lives. The search for why we have a problem does not result in action to change. It is the decision to do something different and create a new pattern of behavior that helps us understand why we had the problem. That’s where you seem to be. You took action and now your starting to figure it out. “Commit then figure it out” is my mantra. All the best for 2023!!!
Thank you for sharing this. I really like this perspective, it makes a lot of good sense! Wishing you all the best for 2023!
PMC Rider? If not, you should be with that mantra!
Also a rider here in Boston! Cutting back on booze in 23. Happy new year everyone.
Well done Chris, thanks for sharing
Great Job Chris! Very inspirational..
Good on you Chris. It's admirable, your achievement. I took up cycling more seriously in 2020 when lockdown gave me loads of free time, and I dropped some 50 lbs of weight and felt tremendous. But I've slipped back into bad habits of poor eating and lethargy. It's good to hear your story of discipline when contending with something that's clearly difficult for you. The point about doing it for others, rather than just yourself, is salient as well. All the best for the coming year.
Thank you and a huge congratulations!! Any type of sustained and significant weight loss is one of the toughest challenges and accomplishments you can attain as a human!! Wishing you the very best moving forward!
I watched your vlog a year ago, so pleased you stuck at it. I stopped drinking alcohol six years ago when trying for a family, then this bundle of joy turns up and never bothered starting again. No regrets. Save money on alcohol, spend a little more on coffee! Happy New Year to you and the family.
Thank you!! And congratulations. Haha, nothing beats a good coffee!!
Thanks for sharing Chris, this has really made me think.
I gave up alcohol 4 years ago January 1st 2020.the best thing I have done. I am a better person. I agree with what you say, Chris. Just life is so much better. My health is better and my head is so much better. Thanks Chris for posting this❤
Chris, don't be disappointed that you've had to admit what you have done, be proud that you can acknowledge it, that you're making efforts to change it and that you're inspiring others! All the best for 2023!
Thank you for the kind words!! Best wishes for 2023!!
Very, very well done Chris. Had a similar conversation with some close friends only a handful of days ago. As you say, regardless of the vice, share and talk it through with others. Ask for support and be there to support. Top bloke!
Thank you. I hope the discussions you had have all been positive. Happy New Year!
Thank you Chris and Mieke for sharing....it really helped.
Great personal growth in 2022. Good things to come for you Chris!
Chris this video really hit home with me as I had a problem with drink and after hitting rock bottom I completely gave up and must say it’s the best thing I’ve ever done 👌 in fact I did try a bit to see how it felt and honestly hated it so please stick it out because you and those around you will reap the benefits x
Thank you for sharing this and congratulations for recognising and achieving what you have! Happy New Year!
Inspirational and very honest 👏 I've taken alot from this and will apply it to my life this year, at 55 years young I'm not looking for performance gains but gains as a person will definitely benefit my family.
Thank you, wishing you the very best on your quest. It's definitely still achievable!
I began my alcohol free journey 367 days ago. Every time I'm in a situation where others are drinking I ask myself if alcohol will benefit me in any way whatsoever. So far in the last year there hasn't been one situation. I'm 55 BTW 🙂
@@cw42Utube Congratulations! That's a great reminder of why.
Very candid, and inspiring for all. Thank you for sharing.
Great video - congratulations on the dedication and the honesty
👍 My reason for giving up alcohol was actually because I discovered that I have other addictions (such as endorphins from cycling 😏). Also, in my 40's my brain is slowly degrading and I don't want to accelerate this process. Happy New Year 🎉
These sound like good healthy reasons to me. Happy New Year!! Wishing you the best in 2023.
I also crave those
same endorphins from cycling/running and the caffeine I get from coffee. Stopped drinking one day 24yrs ago after seeing bad things happening to family, friends and myself. Don’t miss hangovers….
Hey Chris I’ve struggled with alcohol abuse my self, 7 months sober now! It’s honestly the best thing I’ve ever done! But at the end of the day I still struggle everyday with cravings etc. This was a great video to watch because I can relate so much! Happy new years and good luck with your sober journey!
Well done Josh. Keep going mate 🎉
Josh - have you read alcohol explained? Worth a read.
This.
It’s really hard to admit that stopping drinking won’t suddenly solve a negative relationship with alcohol. I too continue to abstain for this reason. Great job on the effort and thank you for your openness, it helps a lot of us.
thanks chris, love your honesty
Well done on achieving the significant milestone and sharing your journey. I did dry January a few years ago. The first 3 weeks were the hardest, but sleep definitely improves, weight drops, your mood improves significantly and food cravings go away. Today is my 5th year of not drinking and I just wish I’d stopped earlier, it would have saved a lot of money and stress!
Thank you! And congratulations to you too. That's a brilliant achievement! Happy 2023!!
Thank you and Happy New Year to you. I found taking it week by week and then month by month worked for me, rather than just setting a hard date target. Replacing alcohol with alternatives was also important in breaking the habit. You just need to find what works for you. Keep up the great work and all the best.
@@justaspartan8203 that is brilliant advice and very helpful!!
Hi Chris, a brave post and great timing - I’m actually starting a 3 month period of alcohol free, and intend to ‘see what it becomes’ - perhaps I’ll do the whole year. Too much to unpack here, but in short, I identify with a lot of what you say. Several years ago, I did 92 days alcohol free. It was the best I felt for ages. I had ‘one beer’ at Christmas, which didn’t even taste that nice, and over time I gradually slipped back to where I was. The sort of relationship with alcohol that you described. If I could go back there, I would never restart - I would just carry on. Have you listened to Adrian Chiles audiobook on moderating? I recommend listening to it, if you’re interested in the subject in general - but I would also say that the way he’s approached it doesn’t work for many people (in my view) and from my experience, it’s all or nothing for me.
Thank you for taking the time to share this, I will look for the podcast.
I felt a similar experience to what you have described in 2021 after 3 months of no alcohol. That was the driving force behind the approach I have now taken. Good luck with your 3 months. I hope it helps you in the way you want it to!
Congratulations. It took me until age 61, over 6 years ago now, to quit the poison. Have never felt better! I was one who couldn't drink only 1 or 2. Good for those who can!
Well done. Thanks for sharing your story.
Chapeau.. Honest and touching..
Good luck.
Thank you for sharing! Very sincere and straight statement!
Hats off, and thank you for the inspiration!
Congrats, keep strong brother!!!
Hi Chris. A happy new year to you and your family.
Well done on your year. Your videos are always very honest and I look forward to the next one
Beautiful honesty and introspection
Total respect and admiration for you putting this out there Chris, Thank you
Great story Chris, thanks!
Thanks Chis. Wonderful to hear your story so far.
Happy New Years and thanks for opening up about your experience, God bless you
Congrats on the milestone and most importantly, thank you for sharing. Keep up the hard work!