Is This All There Is?

I was born with the “MORE” gene. It’s part of who I am. That’s probably why I became an addict. Thirty-four years ago, I crawled into recovery as a beaten and broken man. By following suggestions from people who were able to get and stay sober, I learned how to stay sober too.

The challenge became this: I didn’t just want to be clean and sober—I wanted a great life! Over time, I began to realize that if the Creator built this “more” character trait into me, then surely it could be put to good use.

My experience is that the true joy of recovery is redirecting our “more” tendencies to achieve positive, worthwhile goals. If you are seeking solutions or just some fresh ideas on how to move your recovery dreams forward in 2025, let me offer a few suggestions:

1) Be careful how you talk to yourself.

We talk to ourselves all day long. And our internal conversations either propel us forward or drag us backward. During active addiction, many of us developed the habit of mentally beating ourselves up. This unproductive, limiting habit can stay with us long after we stop using.

“The voice” in our head tells us: I’m not good enough, pretty enough, or talented enough. Sometimes we reinforce weak suggestions such as: Someday I’ll fall in love. Someday I’ll finish college. Someday I’ll make more money.

Remember—Today is Someday!

Suggestion: Write down four positive affirmations and read them aloud several times a day or whenever you drift into unproductive thinking patterns. Over time, these affirmations will become part of your subconscious. This is an easy way to rewrite the software in your head and create a new, positive habit.

A few examples:

• I was created to be sober, free, and loved.
• I can achieve all my goals.
• I can create the reality of my choosing.
• I am healthy in body, mind, and spirit.

2) Ask yourself better questions.

Better questions produce better answers. Better answers ensure better results. What kind of questions are you asking?

Do you begin your day with unproductive questions such as:
Why do I have to wake up? How come I never get a break? Why do I have to go to work? I don’t know if I can succeed, so why bother trying? How am I ever going to pay my bills?

These types of fearful and negative questions instantly produce negative emotions, putting unneeded stress on your entire being. Physically, our bodies tense up, self-esteem plummets, and we can even feel achy and nauseous. Mentally, we become anxious and depressed. These types of questions are carryover habits from our days in active addiction. They are a self-fulfilling prophecy and a complete waste of time.

Suggestion: Begin a new, more empowering habit of starting your day in a productive way by asking better questions.

Examples include:

• What would I do today if I had unlimited time, freedom, and money?
• How can I do something enjoyable and get paid for it?
• What would I do if success were guaranteed?
• How am I going to have fun TODAY?

This is not idle daydreaming. This is how you design a life.

All human accomplishments begin in the workshop of the mind. These types of questions, when answered intelligently, give you clues as to what really interests you. When you do something you like, you do it with enthusiasm, and it doesn’t feel like work. Do something with enthusiasm instead of just for a paycheck, and you typically do it well. Doing something well increases your self-esteem. Do something well, and you will earn more money.

3) Take Action

We have all had good ideas and grand dreams about what we want to do, own, or accomplish, but few of us take the consistent action required to turn our dreams into reality.

A successful life rarely happens in a flash of brilliance or in a moment’s stroke of inspiration. More often, it happens by taking consistent, focused, daily action over an extended period of time.

A good idea might pop into your consciousness, but unless we take focused action, nothing will come of it. Sometimes the hardest part of becoming successful beyond sobriety is just getting started. The good news is that all the tools needed to maintain sobriety are transferable into everyday life.

Suggestion: Write down one action step you could take today to turn your dreams into reality.

It might be as simple as making a phone call. Maybe you want to register for a class. Perhaps you could find a mentor who already knows how to accomplish what you are seeking to achieve.

After all, isn’t that how most of us got sober? We took small steps on a daily basis, and it turned into a sober life. The same process can be used on your journey to abundance.

At the very least, write down your goal and place it where you will read it every day. Following through on these simple suggestions will increase your ability to make 2025 your best year ever!

To learn more, visit mymentalhealth.org and download the APP!

Taking this simple action today is your first step to making 2025 a year of Happiness, Joy, Sobriety, and Abundance.

Brian McAlister is President of My Mental Health, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, creator of the Freedom 365 Virtual Recovery System, author of the #1 Amazon bestselling book Full Recovery, and CEO/Founder of the Full Recovery Wellness Center licensed treatment facility.

January arrives with its vibe of fresh starts, new resolutions, and the perfect opportunity to challenge yourself: Dry January. Ditching alcohol for 31 days might seem like a tall order but trust me—the benefits make it worth every sober moment. Here’s why jumping into Dry January 2025 could be the best choice you make for your body, mind, and social circle.

Why Dry January? The Perks You Don’t Want to Miss

1. A Refresh for Your Body Let’s be honest: December is all about parties, gatherings, and indulgence. By the time January hits, your body could use a breather. A month without alcohol allows your system to detox, improves your sleep, and boosts your overall energy. You might even notice clearer skin and a spring in your step by mid-month.

2. Mental Clarity That Surprises You Skipping the usual drinks isn’t just about avoiding hangovers. Taking a break from alcohol can help reduce anxiety and improve mood stability. Participants often find themselves thinking clearer, with more energy to tackle their goals. Whether it’s that side project you’ve been putting off or just feeling better at work, Dry January can give you that mental edge.

3. Self-Growth and New Habits Dry January is more than just a month without drinking—it’s an eye-opener. It’s a chance to recognize how much alcohol fits into your routine and discover healthier ways to unwind. Whether that’s replacing your evening glass of wine with a cup of tea, going for a run, or trying a new hobby, these small shifts can lead to lasting self-growth.

How to Stay Motivated: The Power of Community

Making it through Dry January solo can be tough, but you don’t have to go it alone. Joining a community can make all the difference. The My Mental Health App, for example, is a great space to connect with others participating in Dry January. Members share experiences, tips, and even fun ideas like mocktail recipes to keep things interesting. It’s all about feeling supported, staying motivated, and finding joy in the journey.

What’s in It for the 20-40 Crowd?

If you’re in your 20s, loving life’s social whirlwind, or in your 30s-40s balancing a busy schedule, Dry January offers some unique perks.

1. Saving Money: Alcohol isn’t cheap. Skipping drinks for a month can add up to serious savings. That money could go toward anything from a weekend trip to upgrading your home space—talk about a win-win.

2. Real Connections: Socializing without alcohol brings a new level of authenticity. Instead of bar nights, try activities like hiking, coffee meetups, or exploring new brunch spots for the food (not the mimosas). Your conversations will be more memorable, and you’ll appreciate being fully present.

3. Mocktail Love: The sober-curious movement has sparked a wave of creative and tasty mocktails. Need inspiration? Communities like My Mental Health App will be posting mocktail recipes throughout the month to keep your taste buds happy and the FOMO away.

A Month That Could Transform the Rest of Your Year

So, why not give it a shot? Dry January 2025 is your chance to start the year with clarity, energy, and a fresh outlook. And with the right community to back you up, you’ll find the month flies by and leaves you better for it.

Your future self will thank you.

Ready for Self-Growth this year! Sign up here for our Masterclasses on all things Success in Sobriety!