Breaking the High

"I'm so pleased to have my whole life back, it is a privilege."

This uplifting statement serves as a testament to the life-changing potential of recovery, aligning with the podcast's goal of encouraging positive shifts.

"People think drinking is only a problem if you're drinking at work, or in the morning, passing out, getting in fights. But you can be really 'responsible' about it and it still will be a problem."

Offers a fresh perspective on the hidden issues of alcohol consumption, potentially helping listeners recognize and reconsider their own habits.

"Before getting sober, the only 'fun' I looked forward to in life was booze. The booze made me blind to the real fun that I was missing which is life."

This quote provides a unique perspective on how removing negative habits can lead to discovering genuine joy, aligning well with the episode's focus on healthier alternatives.

"I made it to one YEAR! I can honestly say I couldn't have done this without each and every one of you. Encouragement all the way."

Emphasizes the role of community support and encouragement, aligning with the podcast's theme of emotional wellbeing and community resources.

"I'm up late because our 5 year old went to a movie/pizza night at the place he goes to taekwondo lessons. My husband and I had takeout and watched a movie while he was there. And then I picked him up at 9pm. I did. At 9pm. In my drinking days I wouldn't have even considered signing him up for something that had a 9pm pickup time."

Highlights the real-life benefits of replacing unhealthy habits with positive life changes, making it relatable for those considering similar shifts.

"The quicker you accept how your brain works, and remove the ego involved in trying to quickly transform yourself, the quicker you will actually become the person you want to become."

Offers a nuanced understanding of discipline and habit formation, emphasizing patience and self-compassion, resonating with Ben Carter’s empathetic and encouraging approach.

"This has been the key for me too! Stupid easy steps for all my goals."

Highlights a practical, actionable strategy for creating and maintaining new habits, directly relevant to the podcast's focus on healthier alternatives.

"Life is not easier, but it's hard for different reasons."

Offers a real, honest perspective on life after addiction, emphasizing that challenges persist but change in nature. This insight is valuable for those considering replacing unhealthy habits.

"Now I know I'm just someone who can't drink healthy amounts. I don't think that many people can, really. Me too, there was the gilded evening hours with the buzz and the laughter (and the bad decisions and battle with bodily functions) and the 'greyer' time in the day. Well, not being hungover gives everything more colour, for a start. I'm so pleased to have my whole life back, it is a privilege."

This quote reinforces the benefits of positive change and finding joy in everyday life without substances, supporting a key message of the podcast episode.

"People think drinking is only a problem if you're drinking at work, or in the morning, passing out, getting in fights. But you can be really "responsible" about it and it still will be a problem (for some, I guess). I got tired of separating my day into the lame part before I could drink, and the cool part when I could."

Sheds light on common misconceptions about substance use, breaking the stigma associated with addiction. This aligns with the episode’s theme of combating stigma.

"I'm up late and feeling grateful, so I decided to come here and check in. I'm up late because our 5 year old went to a movie/pizza night at the place he goes to taekwondo lessons. My husband and I had takeout and watched a movie while he was there. And then I picked him up at 9pm. I did. At 9pm. In my drinking days I wouldn't have even considered signing him up for something that had a 9pm pickup time. Heck, I would have been stopped by the 6pm dropoff. I had to be home getting settled in to get wasted by then."

Provides a powerful, relatable story that emphasizes how stopping a harmful habit can positively impact family relationships and personal responsibilities.

"I made it to one YEAR! I can honestly say I couldn't have done this without each and every one of you. Encouragement all the way. The truth is as time has passed by it's become a lot easier, with only the odd social situation being particularly difficult. For me though this is just still the beginning, no going back now."

Highlights the importance of community support and encouragement in breaking habits, fitting well with Ben Carter's perspective as a Recovery Advocate.