“Making the best of my life ahead” – Sally Fairclough

I have been a drinker for as long as I can remember. At first it was social, but gradually it turned into a bottle of wine a night — and more at weekends. I’m an all-or-nothing person. I couldn’t have just one, so I’d end up drinking too much and forgetting most of the night.

I was becoming unwell. I felt older than my years, overweight, breathless walking up the stairs. I woke with anxiety and dread, unsatisfied with who I was and the life I was leading. For about three years, I knew I needed to stop — but couldn’t make it longer than a few days.

Then out of the blue

I scrolled past a post on Facebook showing a woman who had completed an OYNB challenge. Her before-and-after photos were incredible — she looked ten years younger in the “after”.

I immediately researched OYNB, read reviews, read comments, and decided then and there to stop drinking.

I expected quitting to be hard. My friends and family certainly thought I would cave after a few days — that had always been my pattern. I bought every alcohol-free drink imaginable, assuming I’d need substitutes. But I quickly realised I didn’t.

It was good to have a fallback drink without sugar, but I was perfectly happy with water, and in the beginning I drank gallons of it. Over time I discovered herbal teas, and I like Seedlip as a party drink — but often I prefer sticking to sparkling water when I’m out.

My OYNB journey

After starting the challenge, I felt like I could achieve anything. The online support was incredible — I even did a live video.

I’ve been amazed at how reflective I’ve become, how aware of my feelings and inner responses. I’m calmer. My anxiety disappeared around two weeks in.

I read This Naked Mind, started a reflective diary, and it helped clear my mind — a rest from the looping inner voice that used to dominate my days.

There were moments of regret — for the time lost to alcohol, for things said, memories forgotten, and opportunities missed. But gradually, I learned to reconcile with myself. Alcohol influenced many choices, but I’m determined to move forward with enthusiasm and an open mind, making the very best of my life ahead.

My AF achievements

I’ve met new people.I’ve taken on new challenges — running, sailing, career changes.I’ve lost 2 stone, I’m fitter, healthier, and eat better.

I’m surprised by how easy it has been. I studied how the subconscious influences decisions and began deliberately feeding mine with positive thoughts and mantras.

I openly tell anyone I meet that I don’t drink — and I’ve had almost no negative feedback. If I did, I’d consider it their issue, not mine.

OYNB has absolutely supported my transformation. Being able to share openly, ask questions, and grow in a safe community has been key for me.

I’ve even inspired others to become alcohol-free and directed them to OYNB for support.

I don’t know if I would have reached 365 days without OYNB — but I doubt it. It has been my sounding board, my support system, and my push to try new things and become better.