There’s no victory in sobriety if our emotional state is destructive. We have to obliterate alcohol and drugs from our thinking; instead, we try to think of our true feelings. What are they? Anger, sadness, happiness, joy. Where do they come from?

For me, happiness in addiction was based on escape. It was tough to sit with my thoughts, but I could deal with them fine when I drank, mostly because I avoided feelings. My emotions were reliant on the sauce. When I was drinking, I could be emotional and vulnerable, but when sober, I was afraid to be alone.

When I got sober, I sat in those dark places and thought of my emotions. I would ask myself, “Justin, why are you feeling this way right now? You’re sad; can you identify why?” I didn’t attempt to change it if I was sad, but I sat with that feeling. I knew it would eventually pass because all things do. That’s the beauty of time; it keeps going.

Try to live in the present. If you’re not bleeding right now, you’re probably doing okay. Most problems are created in our heads by residing outside the current moment. We live in the past or future—concepts that do not exist. Live in the moment by hyper-focusing on your emotions. Honor them; do not run from them; isolate the ones holding you back from where you want to be.

Emotional sobriety goes beyond abstaining from substances. It encompasses a mindful and balanced way of living, where we actively engage in self-awareness and personal growth to achieve a fulfilling and resilient emotional state.

Explore and understand your emotions without relying on alcohol. Emotional sobriety is a vital component of a healthier life.

* For Sober coaching with Justin, click here.

** To buy Daily Sober, click here.