A few of my family and friends got a head’s up on what I have resolved to do differently in 2014. Some said I was nuts and predicted I won’t make it through a week. Others vowed to do one day, one month, or even 100 days along with me. One wise friend encouraged me by saying even a single day observed is an achievement. I wouldn’t be surprised if you could actually place a bet in Vegas on how long I’ll stick with it. Let’s face it, some resolutions are just easier to accomplish than others.
What is my 2014 New Year’s resolution? I resolve to drink no alcohol in 2014. It’s making me thirsty just thinking about it. Below is a picture of me taking my last drink at midnight on New Year’s Eve.
It has occurred to me that not drinking could be the path to several other important goals I considered this year and many other New Year’s before, like losing weight, saving more money, running faster, having more time to read and to write, and spending more quality time with my loved ones. Not one to easily shy away from a challenge, I decided to try for the big kahuna this year.
On the other hand, I have also considered that it is entirely possible that not drinking will take all of the enjoyment out of life and make me absolutely miserable. One thing’s for sure, it is going to be very interesting to try.
Not knowing how hard this is going to be or how realistic it is as a New Year’s Resolution, I took a few minutes to look up some quotes about failure. Here are the ones that resonate the most with me as I begin this challenge:
• “I can accept failure, everyone fails at something. But I can’t accept not trying.” – Michael Jordan
• “Failure is not fatal, but failure to change might be.” – John Wooden
• “Failures are finger posts on the road to achievement. – C. S. Lewis
• “My great concern is not whether you have failed, but whether you are content with your failure.” – Abraham Lincoln
Whatever happens, you’ll be able to catch my thoughts on my New Year’s Resolution right here, under the blog category of “A Dry Year.”
Detours & Destinations 
Good For you Sharon! I am pulling for you! You can do this! You have always achieved what you set out to do, if you want this, you can do it! Going to CFI today, maybe I will see ya!
One challenge will be refocusing relationships that previously revolved around getting together “to have a drink” or enjoying a “great wine pairing.” The use of alcohol as a social hub is much like the whole concept of breaking bread together. If anyone has the will and ability to refocus her own or other peoples’ views, though, it’s you. Happy 2014!
As they say, one day at a time. I know you can do this if you want to. Best of luck and happy new year.
Every year is a “Dry Year” for me, 😉 I’ve always found it difficult not being a drinker. The social pressure to drink at ever occasion is enormous… I wish you luck..
There are many people who for various reasons have stopped enjoying alcohol and have continued very happy successful lives. Your reason are very sound and non-judgmental. Maybe without you can focus with greater detail on what others are saying and what you are writing.
As Monty Python says… always look on the bright side
Thanks, everyone, for both your wisdom and your support!
From a Chinese Fortune Cookie.. “To guarantee success, act as it were impossible to fail” You go girl!!
You go girl a big resolution. Its not about failure but about being brave in the attempt. I wish you luck but this is all about skil
Johnny
My fav is Nelson Mandela. “It’s always impossible until it’s done.” Good luck.
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