Ruari Fairbairns | One Year No Beer

Life is so much richer now—Jessica Schmitt

My relationship with alcohol has always been complicated. Despite the relatively late start of having my first drink at age 19, I never mastered the art of ‘casual’ drinking. While I didn’t drink every day, it was often hard to find the off switch when I did. I’d do...

My life has improved in countless ways—Rebecca Brown

Alcohol was not my problem. Alcohol was my solution. And that was the problem. For me, there wasn’t a rock bottom moment. I didn’t have any blackouts, but I did have a lot that I knew I’d missed out on. I’d been sliding down a slippery slope for 20 years. I was no...

Why sharing experience is so important

Sharing all the highs and lows of your alcohol-free journey can be a powerful thing. And not just for others—for you, too. Sure, sharing experience can be a daunting prospect. Will people judge you for sharing difficult experiences? Will it look like bragging to share...

You can’t imagine going back once you’re on the other side—Simon Lewis

I didn’t want my life to be dictated by this addiction. I have struggled with drinking my entire life. It was absolutely my solution to a bad day, a boring day, or even a good day! You could find me with a drink in my hand on most nights, but definitely on the...

The changes are nothing short of astounding—Rachel Walczak

Before joining OYNB, I was the kind of drinker that could never have just one. Or even just five. I’ve always had a dysfunctional relationship with alcohol. I can’t say there’s been a time in my life where I drank moderately or responsibly. But in the two years...

Coaching: What’s the big deal, anyway?

Coaches used to be reserved for athletes and Hollywood celebrities. But thankfully not any more, because coaching can be powerful for personal growth. But what is it, who is it for, and what do you really get out of it? What impressions come to mind when you think of...