When I stopped drinking alcohol I told everyone as a form of accountability. You made your declaration to the world, good job, keep going, it really does get better and every day sober is one more reason to stay the course. Best wishes from Virginia USA.
"the fact that you think this is humiliating is part of the problem" YES! Louder for the ones in the back! 🗣️📣 Both men and women need to be more vocal in shutting down people who think men can't have or show feelings! Support the men in your lives when they're struggling. 💪
This was my comment on his other video just now - cos for me it was the shame that was the big hurdle. IMPORTANT THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW...!!! You're not a bad person, you are not a failure, you are not "letting everyone down", you are just doing what millions of people do every day, have a drink But for some of us, it does not work out too good. And we have to stop it because if we don't, it WILL unalive us. THERE IS NO SHAME IN THIS And as someone sober for 15+ years I can tell you - UNANIMOUSLY people will be supportive with the exception of other alcoholics - If you have drinking buddies with a problem, you MUST cut them out of your life cos they will drag you back..!
*IMPORTANT THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW...!!!* You're not a bad person, you are not a failure, you are not "letting everyone down", you are just doing what millions of people do every day But for some of us, it does not work out too good. And we have to stop it because if we don't, it WILL unalive us. *THERE IS NO SHAME IN THIS* And as someone sober for 15+ years I can tell you - UNANIMOUSLY people will be supportive with the exception of other alcoholics - If you have drinking buddies with a problem, you MUST cut them out of your life cos they will drag you back..!
I'm 50 years old and 30 years sober. I was in rehab when I was 20 and it was the best thing I ever did for myself. There is no shame in being an alcoholic or an addict and there is no shame in getting help. Don't let your addiction ruin your life. Get help. Best wishes to you and all who are fighting this battle.
You won me over as a subscriber in the last video. You won me over as a follower of the channel with this one. I’ve been sober for 17 years and I don’t miss the fire water one bit…anymore. It was hard at first but it does get easier and life goes on.
Great video, it is still early days and you are doing well. I think your honest, open conversation is perfect for everyone who is ìn a similar position, myself included. We all need to support each other through the good and bad times and by put these videos out you are doing just that. Take care and respect to you.
I found you because of your wood turning. I'm a beginner turner. Now I am very much concerned with your personal journey. I and many many others will always support you. We wish you good health, happiness, peace, love and personal success.
17?! Out-freaking-standing. Diet... yeah, I'd probably focus on the hard part 1st, too. Diet changes will come as objective 1 gets easier. 17 days - Well done 👏
I hope things are still going well for you brother, stay strong, i found the first three months the hardest, but that is because I was in icu with multiple organ failure! It gets easier, and as you say, "one day at a time"! Much love and support from Australia, 10 years off the grog for me in November!
Buddy, it takes a real man to take an honest look at yourself and decide to do something different to improve your own life. Then to also do that on a public platform takes a lot of courage. Your honesty, transparency and vulnerability surrounding your very personal matters is refreshing in this fake world today. I think its much needed in todays culture, thank you.
I legit subbed because you owned your shyte took the bull by the horns and you need support....your doing great,you got this down for real.keep up the good work more short videos to form a good habit is absolutely what a professional would suggest.I just got out of a clinic for wanting to self delete and developing good habits that will keep you away from bad ones is the most common thing I heard Drs tell others and others tell me worked.hit it as hard as you need to stay straight.food for thought....you ever wonder why so many recovering dope addicts end up gym junkies??.....just saying,you need a strong neuropathway for satisfaction not satisfaction to have a strong neuropathway.good habits for bad I legit can't say it enough!
This is quite the opposite of humiliating. This is a PROUD moment. You've found the strength, bravery and grace to handle this is a way that can help others, and that's something to be proud of. One day at a time man, you've got this. Much love
17 days, well done. My advise is to get to people who you can relate to. You can't do this alone, you will fall back. You need response on youre triggers. Just experience off what i have seen and experienced not to talk you down or be a critic. Anyway eating and sleeping will get better, take youre time to ajust, give youre body and brain the time to get used to the new you!! Good luck!
Mike, you took the first crucial step and one of the hardest for most to take ... you admitted to yourself and others that you have a problem and that you need to make changes. If you never admit that you have a problem, you will never accomplish overcoming it. The rest will come in time. Keep up the good work and effort.
The video you’re referring to in this was the reason I subscribed. This is the content I’d like to see more from people on the internet and especially from guys. It’s important
I think this was the perfect way to address comments. You can’t answer every single one of them. Anybody watching this probably got their questions answered. Thank you for sharing Mike. Everybody has their journey.
keep up the no-drinky life my duder!!! Fight the bad guy!! kiyaa!! You win!! 🎆🎇 I'm more than twenty years now from an 11 year blackout fuzz... I'm... nay, WE ALL are rootin' for that power in you. Find it!!
I agree 100% with you. Also if you are still struggling w/nutrition, please post away re: those struggles. When I first quit drinking, I literally ate whatever it took to keep me from drinking, things I would not have dared eat before (which is STUPID bc I was drinking alcohol but wouldn't eat bread, STUPID STUPID STUPID). Oh I am a woman so this may be totally different for women and men. I swear hitting the drive thru and getting an ice cream cone when I was having a bad day saved me from buying vodka. I hadn't drank a dark soda in 15 plus years but that soda on a bad day helped too. I think we are too hard on ourselves and try to do too much all at once when we quit drinking. I like to think of it as giving myself some grace and compassion while doing something really hard. Early sobriety is hard so I think little "hacks" can help it not suck quite as bad v. white knuckeling it. Fast forward, now I at the gym at 6 am every day and eat pretty darn healthy bc bottom line, it makes me feel FANTASTIC. I don't ever want to go back to feeling like dogshit w/three day hangovers.
When you want to grab that beer. Take a second to think about all the things you truly regret doing in your life, those things that turn your stomach to think about. And then ask yourself if you were drinking.
Never seen a video from you before but I'm really happy to see someone admit they have a problem and work to fix it. I've also sometimes struggled with depression and alcohol surely would only make it worse. Just remember that even in the worst moments, there's always a good day ahead, no matter how much it may seem there isn't :)
Hey, just wanted to say. I found your channel thru the last video. Glad to see you’re doing well. I myself also go thru phases but the good news is, that’s normal and you’re a smart guy to know when a change needs to be made. Some things that help me out of these cycles is picking up another time consuming hobby. And even more important, recognizing that you are sad and learning how to let the sadness come and go. Feel those feelings, it’s what makes us uniquely human. Other than that I was surprised to see you aren’t totally famous ! The craftsmanship is top tier, instantly subscribed to see more !
I'm very new to your channel, but it already seems you look better than in the previous video. It is brave to open yourself like that publicly. Thank you for trying, wish you all the success!
Glad to know you've been keeping yourself healthy and happy. Like I said in my other comment on the other vid, " Find a new reason to smile everyday, do that, and everything will be OK "
Everyone has a story and most contain a really shitty section where we're not proud of our actions and damn sure not proud of the accomplishments we've had. You're just a man, not a superman. Im so glad you shared this and you should feel proud that you've reached a decision and admitted to yourself that you have an issue or issues. Dont ever think you're alone brother. The one thing that has helped me the most is that I now know that I am merely an ant on a string in a hurricane. The story.....write yours and make it one that you would want your kids to hear or future you even. Give yourself a reason to look back and know this was a good thing. I am not a believer in any program because mostly its a life problem. Alcohol is just a bi-product of that life! Fix the life, fix the you! Ultimately, its about chasing happiness I think and there are levels of that happiness that we all reach as we go along and many of us wreck every so often. It's just how it is. Oh yeah, fuck the assholes who think they are beyond this! No one is immune.
you seem to have achieved the most critical step - acceptance that your behaviour is the problem. Now its just trial and error till you make the change you need :-)
We are all human, "regular guys" and as such we all eventually fall down. What matters more than how many times you fall is how many times you get back up. In woodworking as in life, you cannot trust anyone who claims to never make mistakes. Some people are just more adept at hiding those mistakes. Being truthful about your problem took courage and is the first step to recovery. That is why I just became a subscriber, you tell the truth no matter how uncomfortable. As a fellow human, regular guy and woodworker I salute you for your courage and commitment to improving yourself and for being genuine.
*NEXT POINT* you _will_ need to work on your coping strategies or you will just relapse - we get addicted to things that PERFORM A FUNCTION - they give us something we need to allow us to escape a thing we dont like that we have no way of coping with.. For ME it was walking - I walk my dog 5 times a day - this is how I process stress etc that used to have me drinking. You need to work on this, take away the need you take away the problem.
Hell yeah dude! 17 days down and the next 17 will only get easier. Breaking through the first and thickest wall of initial cravings is the hardest, now drop your shoulder and charge through the next. Stay strong brother, keep up the good work!
re: "Do This!" -- instead of giving advice or direction, I've found that it's much more effective if I simply share what I have done and what has (or hasn't) worked for me. I don't know what will work for anyone else, but I think it can help when we share our experience. And yeah, ignore the trolls.
Your last video took a level of exceptional courage. You talked about your own personal difficulties that may well help others too although that wasn't the intention, I just am blown away by your honesty, courage, and strength, stay sober, keep going and stay strong
I have not been on the same journey as you. I have my own issues , as we all do. I think that you are very brave for being so puplic. I have been around others who have faced similar challenges. All the best to you. You don't have to reply.
I love this video. Keep building things and sharing the woodworking wisdom and life events. Thank you for sharing your journey. It lifts others up too.
I used to work with a guy who was alcoholic. Extremely smart individual. One jerk I also worked with said to me one day "If he is so smart why doesn't he just quit drinking." What an idiot. He just didn't get it. But you will run in to people like that. Ignore the stupid.
One of the most destructive things about alcohol use disorder is that it desperately wants to stay hidden. It cannot continue to operate uninterrupted once it has been brought to light. Addiction knows this about itself, so for you to share your confession took more courage than you might imagine. I almost drank myself to death before I asked for help because I knew as soon as I did, people would start interfering with my drinking. Good things start to happen the moment you start telling the truth, though.
One time at wood camp, I meet my hero ..... he said out loud to me for no reason at all " you're terrible person! " ... so I told him what to do with himself. Which was to have some ice cream ..... ice cream fixes everything. Congrats on 17 ;)
I'm struggling with the same disease. What helps is thinking about the taxes on alcohol in my country and how much I hate the government getting that money.
Hi Mike! I feel like answering your call to engage in this challenging topic. First let me say it takes courage to come out like this. Secondly you’ve taken the first important step to acknowledge your (life)struggles The next step you now face is finding the solution(s). But first you have to know the source of the pain. Find the source and work on/from that. And that is the challenge you will face. Because your mind will want you to keep the manner of life you now have. The best part of it is; you can take control of your own life and therefore the situation you are in now. And as said; it is more complicated the you might think, but remember, the solution is within you. Let me explain. Spoiler alert: this might come on hard. I have experienced the same with my search of solutions to my depressions/trauma’s: All the things that (in you adult life) have happened, now happens and will happen to you are basically the result of your own doing/thinking/way of living. You are responsible for your own life and can take matters in to your own hands. You always have the choice to take lif in to your own hands. Whatever people or situations have done or still are doing to you: it is your own responsibility to deal with it. Meaning: You can do something about it. It is your choice to be in the situations that you are in. And it is you own capability to deal with and overcome it when you want to step out of the destructive patterns. So to live your life as you want/should be. To be (happy with) yourselve despite or thanks to all the ‘bad-broken-destructive and good-beautiful-healing-constructive’ things that are happening to and around you. Depression as I felt and dealt with is a symptom/outcome of trauma which has a deeper meaning and source. It is mostly to do with identity; who are you (Really. From the inside. Behind the curtains) and depression is the way of your body to say STOP to the manner of how you live/have lived. Most people (me included) who are suffering from depression are constantly living in anxiety. Nobody wants to fel that way and therefore we learned to cope with it with adaptation. So you have coping skills to survive in life. And how these coping skills play out in our lives is in fact different. One will want to drink, take drugs, sleep, all the things you can do to NOT feel that inner pain. And that makes sense in a way that we are not meant to live in anxiety. As I observed myself and people around me, I have noticed that people who suffer from depression/trauma’s are to kind for others and always way to harsh on themselves, having low self esteem, insecure, haver difficulties feeling and with their feelings and do not know and feel their own boundaries, are overcompensating, etc. In most cases it has to do with early life trauma. Yes it is a cliché, but in my view 99% of trauma is formed in our early years of life and played further out in our adolescence period. Which in fact in certain parts in you, you still not ‘grown up’ in. Trauma maybe sounds heavy, but In my opinion trauma can be a really small flesh wound up to a great mental wound(depression/anxiety) that feels will never heal, both physically and mentally. E.g. a (small) mentally trauma can be when you make a fool out of a person. That person can experience trauma because of that. Trauma is what happens inside you as a result of what happened/happens to you (Gabor Mate). E.g. It is not the blow on the head, but the concussion you get. This is an example of visible physical trauma. But there is mental trauma that is the bases of destructive life. Finding out what causes your depression/anxiety is firstly to acknowledge those feelings. Also it is an opportunity to feel these emotions and understanding what happens to you. It is actually an invite to let these feelings be there and observe them and question them in terms of: why do I feel this way? What do these feelings want to tell me? The scary part of it all for me was to ‘dive’ in to the anxiety/feelings and let it happen inside me and observe and questioning the source of my feelings. Even though you want to deal with it on your own (because you think you must or because of shame, guilt etc.) talking to others and professionals eventually guided me through this process. And it will take (a lot) time, effort and will-power. I have taken a few years to overcome a lot of issues. And still developing my innerself. Even if the world around us shows destructive patterns we can choose to live another way. We are meant to live confident, self-aware self-secure and in co-regulation with others. Good nutrients are indeed helpful as well as water in the transition to a healthy self! Hopefully this helps you to understand what you (and others) are going through. And know: There is hope for everyone, because you can deal with your situations. You do not have to feel this way all your live. You can do something about it and turn the tables and live a full and responsible life. Take it in to your own hands. Best of life to you (all), Bart
I think most addictions come back to trauma in some way. I mean, all drug use is an attempt to mask something, or avoid something, or escape something....and those somethings are what I'm going to work on once I'm comfortable doing so without the mask. Thanks for your thoughts, friend.
@@WoodenThingsAndStuff Beautifully 'spoken'; without the mask, that is exactly what it is. We live, act and behave in-and-with the facade that is not who we truely are. Thanks for your reply, much appreciated. I wish you all the best in your yourney to a happy&healthy self, friend!
The fact that you took the time to go over your comment section is a clear indication of your devotion to your fan base. The nutrition part is hard, and tends to happen organically as your mind starts craving food once it realizes the "drink" isn't coming. A lot of it is a combination of mental conditioning and consistency. My non solicited advise would be to start small, but consistent. Hell, a couple bites @ 8 AM (in example), but stick to it. It will turn into 3 bites and eventually you will be screaming at a server wondering why your eggs and scrapple aren't done yet, lol. Anyways, just my (opinion). We're all different. Congrats on 17 days, man. Don't understate that accomplishment.
@WoodenThingsAndStuff That's the best you can do, man. It's rough, and it does take time. What ended up working for me was scheduling. I set times and and I religiously would eat at the same times, BUT, I never held myself to the fire to finish everything - That alone would give me reason not to stick to my schedule. It might be 3 bites at 7AM for a week, but after repetition (and time), it turned into 6, then half a plate, and so on... the more you eat, the more your stomach stretches back out, even in small increments, and eventually, you just kinda get there (at least that worked for me). Cutting alcohol SUCKS, and just when you think it can't be any more difficult, you likely (will) face yet another temptation or or challenge. It's all will power, man. You can do any f***ing thing you want in this world if you truly want it. It won't be easy, but anything worth achieving rarely is.... Sorry to hear you're struggling, but that (will) fade into memory. Keep your eyes to the sky, brother. You got this!
From your other video: I pray you read this bro. I was in the same boat 7 years ago - I used to get drunk often, when I started drinking, I couldn't stop until I either passed out, wrecked a car, got into brawls, get thrown in the back of a police van, etc... I used to be a God-hating Militant "Atheist" - I also battled with extreme anxiety attacks and depression, I got to the point where I couldn't ever stop my drinking (I drove my car over two bikers' bikes one evening after a brawl), and had a massive lawsuit on my name, and contemplated taking myself out (if you get what I'm saying)... I honestly, out of desperation, knelt down and prayed to Jesus Christ, and 7 years later, my entire life turned 180° - I quit drinking, I was able to conquer my addiction to p**nography, I've not been on anti-depressants for 7+ years now, without a single anxiety attack... Life is still difficult, Christianity isn't the "cure all" solution, but you know what, feeling the presence of God in my life has carried me through a lot of hardships (even going through 3 miscarriages with my wife), and I've got no need to drugs, alcohol or p*rn in my life anymore. Trust in Jesus bro, I am a living witness of His existence, and that The Bible is real and true. Blessings in Jesus name.
@@bigmike4923 Hi Mike. The only thing I can think of is the word, alcohol. No swearing. I'm in the same place and was moved by the amount of support. Take care.
17 days, nice work. Now can you say “the last time I hadn’t drank in 17 days was…..”? I couldn’t say that, which is motivation to keep going 😊 Can’t ruin the streak now
*THE TERRIBLE PEOPLE* You have to actually pity them, no one who's life is good and happy is writing these comments, they have terrible empty meaningless lives and they are angry at the world and they want to HURT that world - if they can leave a comment that upsets you or other people - that's a win to them in their tiny, TINY little world.
17:18 comment by Johnfletcher2445 starts “all due respect” and nosedives into blind finger pointing and moral superiority, but with the grammar and spelling of a 5 year old! People like that are comedy gold!
I wont be here saying oh go get therapy cuz i know that wouldnt help at least not me personally. You sad how u should regulate ur nutrition and really remember to eat more in last video. Well every time u get sad or not feel well id recommend u maybe cooking? Making something new looking up recepies? OR ether do more woodwork. I know it is easier said then done but take it slowly, it is a win if u at first once a week do something instead of drinking or anything harmful. Over time i should start to do it more often even when u dont want it or ull be like well maybe only this time ill drink ill work tomorrow nope u wont so just sit and do something else or even nothing. If u dont own any pets i would really recommend getting a cat or a dog or anything that youd like. It gives u a reason to wake up because u have to and they are really good distraction when u dont feel like doing anything. Just go out walk or play with dog or pet the cat. When u do those thing dont look how much u missed out but how much u done even a once a week is a step forward! Not sure do u have any close friends but going to them to openly talk and cry about it well helps.. I know things just pile up over time but u have to learn how to sort them one by one same way as u sort ur tools in workshop :) Maybe distracting urself with game or two could work too, learning new skill maybe trying to make a sculpture out of wood who knows. Ur not alone and yea society has really big problem with pretending that everything is fine, and ofc pressure on men to not be emotional or express emotions cry struggle or ask for help it is just absurd. I could go on and talk till tomorrow but i dont want to write whole bible here XDDD Anyway i hope u get better and yea u are in the same boat as me pal depression is pain in the ass but there are many good ways to deal with it. It is just way easier and quicker to grab a bottle, a razor or anything that will "solve" it quickly. Which is not the way the right way is long slow and painful one, but keep in mind at least it wont be that painful long term. Hope u get well pal!
Oh I thought you were emotional in this video and the previous. Turns out you just have a habit of ripping hairs out. Nose hairs are best! Just joking around
I can't help this what is the device to right of the hammer you know what I think it is. Please answer. O ya I a e 13 years sober best thing I ever did. If you havent been to meeting AA. Try it they help
It's an awl a friend of mine made for me because I kept saying stuff like, "I'm just gonna put a little dik dik here to mark the spot for our drill" etc.
When I stopped drinking alcohol I told everyone as a form of accountability. You made your declaration to the world, good job, keep going, it really does get better and every day sober is one more reason to stay the course. Best wishes from Virginia USA.
Heros are regular guys that do what they need to do
Nailed it brother!
Thanks Bill.
"the fact that you think this is humiliating is part of the problem"
YES! Louder for the ones in the back! 🗣️📣
Both men and women need to be more vocal in shutting down people who think men can't have or show feelings!
Support the men in your lives when they're struggling. 💪
This was my comment on his other video just now - cos for me it was the shame that was the big hurdle.
IMPORTANT THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW...!!! You're not a bad person, you are not a failure, you are not "letting everyone down", you are just doing what millions of people do every day, have a drink
But for some of us, it does not work out too good. And we have to stop it because if we don't, it WILL unalive us. THERE IS NO SHAME IN THIS And as someone sober for 15+ years I can tell you - UNANIMOUSLY people will be supportive with the exception of other alcoholics - If you have drinking buddies with a problem, you MUST cut them out of your life cos they will drag you back..!
@@piccalillipit9211 So true
Yo don't let the algorithm effect you in any way.
*IMPORTANT THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW...!!!* You're not a bad person, you are not a failure, you are not "letting everyone down", you are just doing what millions of people do every day
But for some of us, it does not work out too good. And we have to stop it because if we don't, it WILL unalive us. *THERE IS NO SHAME IN THIS* And as someone sober for 15+ years I can tell you - UNANIMOUSLY people will be supportive with the exception of other alcoholics - If you have drinking buddies with a problem, you MUST cut them out of your life cos they will drag you back..!
I'm 50 years old and 30 years sober.
I was in rehab when I was 20 and it was the best thing I ever did for myself.
There is no shame in being an alcoholic or an addict and there is no shame in getting help.
Don't let your addiction ruin your life. Get help.
Best wishes to you and all who are fighting this battle.
Thanks friend.
You won me over as a subscriber in the last video. You won me over as a follower of the channel with this one. I’ve been sober for 17 years and I don’t miss the fire water one bit…anymore. It was hard at first but it does get easier and life goes on.
Great video, it is still early days and you are doing well. I think your honest, open conversation is perfect for everyone who is ìn a similar position, myself included. We all need to support each other through the good and bad times and by put these videos out you are doing just that. Take care and respect to you.
Thanks very much
I always feel better during the day when I have a high protein smoothie for breakfast.
I found you because of your wood turning. I'm a beginner turner. Now I am very much concerned with your personal journey. I and many many others will always support you. We wish you good health, happiness, peace, love and personal success.
17?! Out-freaking-standing. Diet... yeah, I'd probably focus on the hard part 1st, too. Diet changes will come as objective 1 gets easier. 17 days - Well done 👏
17 days! Hoping it's 19 days, now! You're part of a club now, of us non-drinkers--welcome!
A few more days and it'll be a month!
@@WoodenThingsAndStuff keep it up man!
I hope things are still going well for you brother, stay strong, i found the first three months the hardest, but that is because I was in icu with multiple organ failure! It gets easier, and as you say, "one day at a time"! Much love and support from Australia, 10 years off the grog for me in November!
Buddy, it takes a real man to take an honest look at yourself and decide to do something different to improve your own life. Then to also do that on a public platform takes a lot of courage. Your honesty, transparency and vulnerability surrounding your very personal matters is refreshing in this fake world today. I think its much needed in todays culture, thank you.
I legit subbed because you owned your shyte took the bull by the horns and you need support....your doing great,you got this down for real.keep up the good work more short videos to form a good habit is absolutely what a professional would suggest.I just got out of a clinic for wanting to self delete and developing good habits that will keep you away from bad ones is the most common thing I heard Drs tell others and others tell me worked.hit it as hard as you need to stay straight.food for thought....you ever wonder why so many recovering dope addicts end up gym junkies??.....just saying,you need a strong neuropathway for satisfaction not satisfaction to have a strong neuropathway.good habits for bad I legit can't say it enough!
This is quite the opposite of humiliating. This is a PROUD moment. You've found the strength, bravery and grace to handle this is a way that can help others, and that's something to be proud of. One day at a time man, you've got this. Much love
Thanks, friend.
Quitting alchohol while you can is best. It can quickly get out of hand before you know it. But I feel your on the right path now, so stay strong Man!
17 days, well done. My advise is to get to people who you can relate to. You can't do this alone, you will fall back.
You need response on youre triggers. Just experience off what i have seen and experienced not to talk you down or be a critic.
Anyway eating and sleeping will get better, take youre time to ajust, give youre body and brain the time to get used to the new you!! Good luck!
Just passed a month. Still haven't addressed the eating thing....but I'm telling myself it's okay.
@@WoodenThingsAndStuff Its fine man, just fine. Do as good as you can, and one day at a time. Gongrats on the 1 month!!!!!
Just keep looking forward I am happy that you are doing well
I appreciate that
Mike, you took the first crucial step and one of the hardest for most to take ... you admitted to yourself and others that you have a problem and that you need to make changes. If you never admit that you have a problem, you will never accomplish overcoming it. The rest will come in time. Keep up the good work and effort.
Hey Mike! I'm glad to see your face is looking better! Thanks for the update on things! We're all here for you! SHSHSS
What are you talking about? That face is still bad ...
But it's better than it WAS.
@@WoodenThingsAndStuff I guess I have to agree with that,
The video you’re referring to in this was the reason I subscribed. This is the content I’d like to see more from people on the internet and especially from guys. It’s important
Thanks!
You got this. I quit 8 years ago. It gets so easy that I forget it was a problem at one point (for years I drank more than a case of beer a day).
Looking forward to that day. I'm a month in and I hate it. haha
I think this was the perfect way to address comments. You can’t answer every single one of them. Anybody watching this probably got their questions answered. Thank you for sharing Mike. Everybody has their journey.
Keep being strong my brother. One day at a time. When you stumble & even fall. You can always get back up, & start anew
One month today!
We're here with you Mike. Keeping you in thoughts, prayers, and strength.
Thanks Paul
keep up the no-drinky life my duder!!! Fight the bad guy!! kiyaa!! You win!! 🎆🎇 I'm more than twenty years now from an 11 year blackout fuzz... I'm... nay, WE ALL are rootin' for that power in you. Find it!!
I agree 100% with you. Also if you are still struggling w/nutrition, please post away re: those struggles. When I first quit drinking, I literally ate whatever it took to keep me from drinking, things I would not have dared eat before (which is STUPID bc I was drinking alcohol but wouldn't eat bread, STUPID STUPID STUPID). Oh I am a woman so this may be totally different for women and men. I swear hitting the drive thru and getting an ice cream cone when I was having a bad day saved me from buying vodka. I hadn't drank a dark soda in 15 plus years but that soda on a bad day helped too. I think we are too hard on ourselves and try to do too much all at once when we quit drinking. I like to think of it as giving myself some grace and compassion while doing something really hard. Early sobriety is hard so I think little "hacks" can help it not suck quite as bad v. white knuckeling it. Fast forward, now I at the gym at 6 am every day and eat pretty darn healthy bc bottom line, it makes me feel FANTASTIC. I don't ever want to go back to feeling like dogshit w/three day hangovers.
When you want to grab that beer. Take a second to think about all the things you truly regret doing in your life, those things that turn your stomach to think about. And then ask yourself if you were drinking.
Yeah....that answer is probably yes. haha
Never seen a video from you before but I'm really happy to see someone admit they have a problem and work to fix it. I've also sometimes struggled with depression and alcohol surely would only make it worse. Just remember that even in the worst moments, there's always a good day ahead, no matter how much it may seem there isn't :)
Keep going man! On foot in front of the other! I believe in you! will be checking in on the chanel for more of your future projects!
I appreciate it!
Hero’s chant …to the every day dudes doing what they need to fkn do.
Thanks, friend.
Thank you for putting yourself out there, I started to follow you. I'm 56 and dealing with my mental health issues too.
We're all on a journey nobody else knows about. All the best on yours, friend.
Addiction is extremely hard for someone to understand that hasn't been through it.
It's hard enough for people to understand if you HAVE been through it. haha
Hey, just wanted to say. I found your channel thru the last video. Glad to see you’re doing well. I myself also go thru phases but the good news is, that’s normal and you’re a smart guy to know when a change needs to be made. Some things that help me out of these cycles is picking up another time consuming hobby. And even more important, recognizing that you are sad and learning how to let the sadness come and go. Feel those feelings, it’s what makes us uniquely human. Other than that I was surprised to see you aren’t totally famous ! The craftsmanship is top tier, instantly subscribed to see more !
Thanks, friend.
I'm very new to your channel, but it already seems you look better than in the previous video. It is brave to open yourself like that publicly. Thank you for trying, wish you all the success!
Thank you so much!
You sound so sharp and lucid now I can instantly see you are healthier and happier well done
Glad to know you've been keeping yourself healthy and happy. Like I said in my other comment on the other vid, " Find a new reason to smile everyday, do that, and everything will be OK "
I'm trying, friend.
Everyone has a story and most contain a really shitty section where we're not proud of our actions and damn sure not proud of the accomplishments we've had. You're just a man, not a superman. Im so glad you shared this and you should feel proud that you've reached a decision and admitted to yourself that you have an issue or issues. Dont ever think you're alone brother. The one thing that has helped me the most is that I now know that I am merely an ant on a string in a hurricane. The story.....write yours and make it one that you would want your kids to hear or future you even. Give yourself a reason to look back and know this was a good thing. I am not a believer in any program because mostly its a life problem. Alcohol is just a bi-product of that life! Fix the life, fix the you! Ultimately, its about chasing happiness I think and there are levels of that happiness that we all reach as we go along and many of us wreck every so often. It's just how it is. Oh yeah, fuck the assholes who think they are beyond this! No one is immune.
No worries, brother. You can do it. It just takes a bit of time and a healthy dose of willpower.
P.S. Happy after birthday 🎁🎊🎈🎂
We are all on a journey, sometimes we tread similar paths. I support you on your journey.
Thanks, Stanifer.
If your sharing your story inspires someone else and saves someone else’s life, that makes you extraordinary.
Seems these last few videos have affected some people in a positive way, which is nice. Thanks, friend.
17 days is nothing to sneeze at!! No matter what others say, ya gotta be true to yourself. It’s ok to not be ok.
you seem to have achieved the most critical step - acceptance that your behaviour is the problem. Now its just trial and error till you make the change you need :-)
We are all human, "regular guys" and as such we all eventually fall down. What matters more than how many times you fall is how many times you get back up. In woodworking as in life, you cannot trust anyone who claims to never make mistakes. Some people are just more adept at hiding those mistakes. Being truthful about your problem took courage and is the first step to recovery. That is why I just became a subscriber, you tell the truth no matter how uncomfortable. As a fellow human, regular guy and woodworker I salute you for your courage and commitment to improving yourself and for being genuine.
Thanks, friend. May your joinery be tight and your journey be a good one.
Keep it up.
Just passed a month!
In the car world you are what they call a numbers matching classic. Very valuable.
Thanks. Also, sometimes I feel old and like some of my parts are about to fall off. haha
You are strong.
AWESOME. 17 days sober, great job keep it up, one day at a time.
A month now! Thanks friend!
*NEXT POINT* you _will_ need to work on your coping strategies or you will just relapse - we get addicted to things that PERFORM A FUNCTION - they give us something we need to allow us to escape a thing we dont like that we have no way of coping with..
For ME it was walking - I walk my dog 5 times a day - this is how I process stress etc that used to have me drinking. You need to work on this, take away the need you take away the problem.
You look a lot better bro
Face healed up okay. Finger still kinda messed up. But I'm a month sober today!
Keep it up brother. One day at a time. 👽
That's the plan!
Nice job man, we’re all here for you.
Don’t let the trolls get to you!
One day at a time, Broski!
Thanks, friend.
Hell yeah dude! 17 days down and the next 17 will only get easier. Breaking through the first and thickest wall of initial cravings is the hardest, now drop your shoulder and charge through the next. Stay strong brother, keep up the good work!
I think the second 17 were actually harder. But still fighting.
re: "Do This!" -- instead of giving advice or direction, I've found that it's much more effective if I simply share what I have done and what has (or hasn't) worked for me. I don't know what will work for anyone else, but I think it can help when we share our experience.
And yeah, ignore the trolls.
I agree. It's fine to even make suggestions, just don't try to claim that there's only one way.
🎉🎉🎉 yay! Great job!!!
Thanks! One month now!
Your last video took a level of exceptional courage. You talked about your own personal difficulties that may well help others too although that wasn't the intention, I just am blown away by your honesty, courage, and strength, stay sober, keep going and stay strong
Thank you so much!
I have not been on the same journey as you. I have my own issues , as we all do. I think that you are very brave for being so puplic. I have been around others who have faced similar challenges. All the best to you. You don't have to reply.
Keep it up man your definitely worth it....
I appreciate that
I love this video. Keep building things and sharing the woodworking wisdom and life events.
Thank you for sharing your journey. It lifts others up too.
Thanks, will do!
Look at you!!!!! Keep it up big lad!
Just passed a month! Whoop whoop!
@@WoodenThingsAndStuff There's 4 weekends in a month! That's brilliant. Hope you're feeling better.
I used to work with a guy who was alcoholic. Extremely smart individual. One jerk I also worked with said to me one day "If he is so smart why doesn't he just quit drinking." What an idiot. He just didn't get it. But you will run in to people like that. Ignore the stupid.
One of the most destructive things about alcohol use disorder is that it desperately wants to stay hidden. It cannot continue to operate uninterrupted once it has been brought to light. Addiction knows this about itself, so for you to share your confession took more courage than you might imagine. I almost drank myself to death before I asked for help because I knew as soon as I did, people would start interfering with my drinking. Good things start to happen the moment you start telling the truth, though.
Dude, I remember when you had like 700 subscribers and look at you now!!! Kick ass bro!!!
Right? It only took like 6 years and 400 videos or something! Hahah
Keep up the good fight mate.
We’re rooting for you.
Thanks, friend!
Hey, you matter to me, buddy. Thank you for posting your stuff and opening your heart.
You matter to me, too.
@@WoodenThingsAndStuff honestly, that feels really nice to read today. Thank you. I hope you're doing well and have a relaxing weekend ahead of you.
Hey Mike, I enjoy your work. Go fill your water bottle up :)
Trying to keep it full. Trying out all the flavours of squdjy bottles to find the ones I like. Hahaha
Came back to see how it was going, you're doing great keep it up
Good effin job, seriously. Keep at it. Much love.
YESSSSSSS!!!!! Stay Present, remain Grateful, be kind to yourself. Youre doing Geat!!!
Thank you!
@@WoodenThingsAndStuff Super Proud Of You 💪🏼
Thx for sharing Keep up the good work
Thanks, Larry.
You will make it through this 👍
Way to go man!
Thanks very much!
One time at wood camp, I meet my hero ..... he said out loud to me for no reason at all " you're terrible person! " ... so I told him what to do with himself.
Which was to have some ice cream ..... ice cream fixes everything. Congrats on 17 ;)
I'm struggling with the same disease. What helps is thinking about the taxes on alcohol in my country and how much I hate the government getting that money.
We got you, the best we can , from where we are , always there for a chat any time .
Mike, good job.
Hi Mike!
I feel like answering your call to engage in this challenging topic.
First let me say it takes courage to come out like this.
Secondly you’ve taken the first important step to acknowledge your (life)struggles
The next step you now face is finding the solution(s). But first you have to know the source of the pain. Find the source and work on/from that. And that is the challenge you will face.
Because your mind will want you to keep the manner of life you now have.
The best part of it is; you can take control of your own life and therefore the situation you are in now. And as said; it is more complicated the you might think, but remember, the solution is within you.
Let me explain. Spoiler alert: this might come on hard. I have experienced the same with my search of solutions to my depressions/trauma’s:
All the things that (in you adult life) have happened, now happens and will happen to you are basically the result of your own doing/thinking/way of living.
You are responsible for your own life and can take matters in to your own hands. You always have the choice to take lif in to your own hands.
Whatever people or situations have done or still are doing to you: it is your own responsibility to deal with it. Meaning: You can do something about it. It is your choice to be in the situations that you are in. And it is you own capability to deal with and overcome it when you want to step out of the destructive patterns.
So to live your life as you want/should be. To be (happy with) yourselve despite or thanks to all the ‘bad-broken-destructive and good-beautiful-healing-constructive’ things that are happening to and around you.
Depression as I felt and dealt with is a symptom/outcome of trauma which has a deeper meaning and source. It is mostly to do with identity; who are you (Really. From the inside. Behind the curtains) and depression is the way of your body to say STOP to the manner of how you live/have lived.
Most people (me included) who are suffering from depression are constantly living in anxiety. Nobody wants to fel that way and therefore we learned to cope with it with adaptation. So you have coping skills to survive in life. And how these coping skills play out in our lives is in fact different. One will want to drink, take drugs, sleep, all the things you can do to NOT feel that inner pain. And that makes sense in a way that we are not meant to live in anxiety.
As I observed myself and people around me, I have noticed that people who suffer from depression/trauma’s are to kind for others and always way to harsh on themselves, having low self esteem, insecure, haver difficulties feeling and with their feelings and do not know and feel their own boundaries, are overcompensating, etc.
In most cases it has to do with early life trauma. Yes it is a cliché, but in my view 99% of trauma is formed in our early years of life and played further out in our adolescence period. Which in fact in certain parts in you, you still not ‘grown up’ in.
Trauma maybe sounds heavy, but In my opinion trauma can be a really small flesh wound up to a great mental wound(depression/anxiety) that feels will never heal, both physically and mentally.
E.g. a (small) mentally trauma can be when you make a fool out of a person. That person can experience trauma because of that.
Trauma is what happens inside you as a result of what happened/happens to you (Gabor Mate). E.g. It is not the blow on the head, but the concussion you get.
This is an example of visible physical trauma. But there is mental trauma that is the bases of destructive life.
Finding out what causes your depression/anxiety is firstly to acknowledge those feelings. Also it is an opportunity to feel these emotions and understanding what happens to you. It is actually an invite to let these feelings be there and observe them and question them in terms of: why do I feel this way? What do these feelings want to tell me?
The scary part of it all for me was to ‘dive’ in to the anxiety/feelings and let it happen inside me and observe and questioning the source of my feelings.
Even though you want to deal with it on your own (because you think you must or because of shame, guilt etc.) talking to others and professionals eventually guided me through this process. And it will take (a lot) time, effort and will-power. I have taken a few years to overcome a lot of issues. And still developing my innerself.
Even if the world around us shows destructive patterns we can choose to live another way.
We are meant to live confident, self-aware self-secure and in co-regulation with others.
Good nutrients are indeed helpful as well as water in the transition to a healthy self!
Hopefully this helps you to understand what you (and others) are going through. And know: There is hope for everyone, because you can deal with your situations. You do not have to feel this way all your live. You can do something about it and turn the tables and live a full and responsible life. Take it in to your own hands.
Best of life to you (all), Bart
I think most addictions come back to trauma in some way. I mean, all drug use is an attempt to mask something, or avoid something, or escape something....and those somethings are what I'm going to work on once I'm comfortable doing so without the mask. Thanks for your thoughts, friend.
@@WoodenThingsAndStuff Beautifully 'spoken'; without the mask, that is exactly what it is. We live, act and behave in-and-with the facade that is not who we truely are.
Thanks for your reply, much appreciated. I wish you all the best in your yourney to a happy&healthy self, friend!
The fact that you took the time to go over your comment section is a clear indication of your devotion to your fan base. The nutrition part is hard, and tends to happen organically as your mind starts craving food once it realizes the "drink" isn't coming. A lot of it is a combination of mental conditioning and consistency. My non solicited advise would be to start small, but consistent. Hell, a couple bites @ 8 AM (in example), but stick to it. It will turn into 3 bites and eventually you will be screaming at a server wondering why your eggs and scrapple aren't done yet, lol. Anyways, just my (opinion). We're all different. Congrats on 17 days, man. Don't understate that accomplishment.
A month sober now, but still not improving on the food side of things. Hoping that changes soon, but trying to go easy on myself about it.
@WoodenThingsAndStuff That's the best you can do, man. It's rough, and it does take time. What ended up working for me was scheduling. I set times and and I religiously would eat at the same times, BUT, I never held myself to the fire to finish everything - That alone would give me reason not to stick to my schedule. It might be 3 bites at 7AM for a week, but after repetition (and time), it turned into 6, then half a plate, and so on... the more you eat, the more your stomach stretches back out, even in small increments, and eventually, you just kinda get there (at least that worked for me). Cutting alcohol SUCKS, and just when you think it can't be any more difficult, you likely (will) face yet another temptation or or challenge. It's all will power, man. You can do any f***ing thing you want in this world if you truly want it. It won't be easy, but anything worth achieving rarely is.... Sorry to hear you're struggling, but that (will) fade into memory. Keep your eyes to the sky, brother. You got this!
From your other video: I pray you read this bro. I was in the same boat 7 years ago - I used to get drunk often, when I started drinking, I couldn't stop until I either passed out, wrecked a car, got into brawls, get thrown in the back of a police van, etc... I used to be a God-hating Militant "Atheist" - I also battled with extreme anxiety attacks and depression, I got to the point where I couldn't ever stop my drinking (I drove my car over two bikers' bikes one evening after a brawl), and had a massive lawsuit on my name, and contemplated taking myself out (if you get what I'm saying)... I honestly, out of desperation, knelt down and prayed to Jesus Christ, and 7 years later, my entire life turned 180° - I quit drinking, I was able to conquer my addiction to p**nography, I've not been on anti-depressants for 7+ years now, without a single anxiety attack... Life is still difficult, Christianity isn't the "cure all" solution, but you know what, feeling the presence of God in my life has carried me through a lot of hardships (even going through 3 miscarriages with my wife), and I've got no need to drugs, alcohol or p*rn in my life anymore. Trust in Jesus bro, I am a living witness of His existence, and that The Bible is real and true. Blessings in Jesus name.
Been a year for me….avoid that shit like the plague
I left an heartfelt comment on your last video but it seems to have mysteriously disappeared!
Keep going man.
That's strange, because I only deleted 2 or 3 comments, none of which were anywhere near "heartfelt." In any case, thanks for your support!
youtube likes to hide comments sometimes, especially if there were any swears or drug words, its pretty annoying
@@bigmike4923 Hi Mike.
The only thing I can think of is the word, alcohol.
No swearing.
I'm in the same place and was moved by the amount of support.
Take care.
I want to note blokes and grog sounds more Aussie than British to me, blokes is a very Aussie thing.
17 days, nice work. Now can you say “the last time I hadn’t drank in 17 days was…..”?
I couldn’t say that, which is motivation to keep going 😊
Can’t ruin the streak now
One month now. I hate this. haha
You got this!
Way to go!
*THE TERRIBLE PEOPLE* You have to actually pity them, no one who's life is good and happy is writing these comments, they have terrible empty meaningless lives and they are angry at the world and they want to HURT that world - if they can leave a comment that upsets you or other people - that's a win to them in their tiny, TINY little world.
I agree. It's pretty sad.
@@WoodenThingsAndStuff I hope its going well for you...!!!
More Likes! 👍!! 👍!! 👍!!
Dickishness… is that the technical term or?? 😂 glad you’re doing well mate!
Pretty sure that's the technical term for that, yes. "Engaging in dickishness."
@@WoodenThingsAndStuff 😂😂
👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
You can beat your demons
Here's hopin!
The accounts that make nasty comments are cowards that hide behind an alias.
17:18 comment by Johnfletcher2445 starts “all due respect” and nosedives into blind finger pointing and moral superiority, but with the grammar and spelling of a 5 year old! People like that are comedy gold!
I wont be here saying oh go get therapy cuz i know that wouldnt help at least not me personally. You sad how u should regulate ur nutrition and really remember to eat more in last video. Well every time u get sad or not feel well id recommend u maybe cooking? Making something new looking up recepies? OR ether do more woodwork. I know it is easier said then done but take it slowly, it is a win if u at first once a week do something instead of drinking or anything harmful. Over time i should start to do it more often even when u dont want it or ull be like well maybe only this time ill drink ill work tomorrow nope u wont so just sit and do something else or even nothing. If u dont own any pets i would really recommend getting a cat or a dog or anything that youd like. It gives u a reason to wake up because u have to and they are really good distraction when u dont feel like doing anything. Just go out walk or play with dog or pet the cat. When u do those thing dont look how much u missed out but how much u done even a once a week is a step forward! Not sure do u have any close friends but going to them to openly talk and cry about it well helps.. I know things just pile up over time but u have to learn how to sort them one by one same way as u sort ur tools in workshop :) Maybe distracting urself with game or two could work too, learning new skill maybe trying to make a sculpture out of wood who knows. Ur not alone and yea society has really big problem with pretending that everything is fine, and ofc pressure on men to not be emotional or express emotions cry struggle or ask for help it is just absurd. I could go on and talk till tomorrow but i dont want to write whole bible here XDDD Anyway i hope u get better and yea u are in the same boat as me pal depression is pain in the ass but there are many good ways to deal with it. It is just way easier and quicker to grab a bottle, a razor or anything that will "solve" it quickly. Which is not the way the right way is long slow and painful one, but keep in mind at least it wont be that painful long term. Hope u get well pal!
💪🤟❤️🇺🇸🐊
Don't shave the beard dude
Never.
Oh I thought you were emotional in this video and the previous. Turns out you just have a habit of ripping hairs out. Nose hairs are best! Just joking around
Stop youtube for now.Go to a fucking meeting ,and stick with it
I can't help this what is the device to right of the hammer you know what I think it is. Please answer. O ya I a e 13 years sober best thing I ever did. If you havent been to meeting AA. Try it they help
It's an awl a friend of mine made for me because I kept saying stuff like, "I'm just gonna put a little dik dik here to mark the spot for our drill" etc.