To move through shame, guilt and regret after quitting drinking, it’s first necessary to understand the difference. Only then can we learn how to deal with each emotion in a way that is helpful and healthy. In this episode, we are joined by Brittany, co-creator of The Mocktails Made Us, and Joel, founder of The Sober Sessions, to chat about how we deal with shame and regret in a way that allows us to move forward and continue to thrive.
In this episode:
- Last change comes from love, not shame
- The book “Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself”
- Finding the courage to have hard conversations
- Making amends – not the AA way
- Coping with parenting regrets
- Dealing with shame using journaling
- The value of guilt and regret – because they aren’t “bad” emotions
For those who may not be familiar with me, my name is Joel, and I’m 1 face of addiction. On March 23, 2016, I made a decision that changed my life forever. It was the toughest choice I’ve ever had to make, filled with fear and uncertainty about what lay ahead. But amidst the chaos, one thing kept me going: hope.
My life before that day was a mess. I was constantly drinking, whether it was at work, behind the wheel, or during celebrations. I was what you might call a functioning alcoholic, but in reality, I was slowly killing myself. Nothing seemed to stop me – not even hospital visits, seizures, or days spent unconscious. I was living a life of self-destruction until I finally grew tired of it all.
I reached a point where I didn’t recognize the person staring back at me in the mirror. I was a mere shell of who I used to be. It was time to confront my demons and stop running away from life. So, on March 23, 2016, I checked into a detox center, marking the beginning of my journey to recovery.
At New Freedom Academy, nestled in a quiet corner of New Hampshire, I found the support and tools I needed to rebuild my life. As I started to heal, I realized the depth of my addiction and the extent of my sickness. But with each step forward, I gained a newfound appreciation for life.
Today, I live on life’s terms, embracing both the good and the bad. I no longer try to control everything around me but instead accept things as they come. Instead of being a burden to society, I strive to be a source of inspiration and motivation for others battling similar demons.
I don’t see myself as a role model, but rather as a living testament to the power of hope and faith. Miracles are possible when you refuse to give up, even in the darkest of times. To anyone currently in recovery, know that you’re not alone. I admire your strength and resilience – you’re a true warrior.
And to those considering embarking on the journey to recovery, there’s no better time than now. You are worthy of a better life, and I believe in you. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to everyone who has supported me along the way. Together, we are the sober sessions. Stay strong, stay focused, and stay sober.
With heartfelt sincerity,
Joel Anthony
The Sober Sessions
Let’s connect!
Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.
You can also find Julie and Steve on:
- The Ultimate List of Sober Songs: 223 Songs About Sobriety - May 17, 2024
- Navigating Through the Waves of Grief: A Personal Journey of Loss and Perseverance - April 7, 2024
- Our Sobriety Podcast is a Year Old!! - September 24, 2023