“My life has been turned around” – Ben Pearce

“I feel like I’ve got my life back — and I’m only at the beginning”

I’m 32 and I’ve always loved a beer. My mates knew me as the guy who could smash pints for fun — drinking fast, drinking a lot, and somehow being “proud” of it. Deep down I always knew there was nothing to be proud of. Too many nights out ended in horrific hangovers and complete blackouts. I’d do the usual Dry January routine, but with my birthday on February 2nd, everything slid straight back to normal.

Life behind the scenes

I’m a father of two amazing kids, married to my childhood sweetheart, and recently started my own business. Building something from scratch meant stress, long hours, and a lonely commute into central London. That loneliness quickly turned into an excuse for after-work beers. Before I knew it, I was drinking most nights of the week, staying out later on Fridays, losing weekends to hangovers and anxiety, snapping at my kids, falling asleep randomly, and constantly apologising to my wife on Sundays.

So much time wasted.

The wake-up call

One Friday after a great day at the office, our team headed to a bar. My next memory was waking up on the sofa — no idea how I got home. I missed a family event the next day because I was too hungover and ashamed. In that moment I saw exactly what I’d been ignoring for years. I wasn’t looking after the people I love most. Something had to change.

Taking the first step

A close friend had done an OYNB challenge two years earlier and never went back to drinking. I messaged him and admitted I needed help. He recommended OYNB, so I signed up for the 28-Day Challenge on the spot.

I started reading the emails, watching the videos, and listening to the podcasts on the train or during my runs. For the first time, I felt supported and understood. My wife was encouraging from day one, and that alone made the journey feel lighter.

First big test: holiday mode

We had a family holiday booked for week two — normally a guaranteed excuse for beers on the beach and mojitos by the pool. But this time, it was different.

I ran every morning.I listened to the podcasts.I had energy.I wasn’t grumpy.I was present with my kids.

My wife didn’t drink either, and together we swapped our beloved Peroni for alcohol-free alternatives. And honestly? We had the best holiday we’d had in years.

That’s when it clicked:I don’t need beer. Life feels better without it.

The domino effect

My wife, who was never a heavy drinker, hasn’t touched alcohol since I quit — and she’s loving it. We talk about what we learn from the podcasts, the science behind drinking, and how familiar the shared experiences feel.

I’ve now passed 28 days. I’m on day 32 as I write this — and I have zero desire to go back. My goal now is 365 days alcohol-free.

A better man, husband, and father

I’ve signed up for the London Marathon.I’m running and lifting more than ever.The weight is starting to drop. My mood is better. My patience is better. My marriage is better. My kids get the dad they deserve.

My wife even said I’ve been “a joy to be around.” If you knew me before, you’d know how rarely that phrase was used!

I haven’t told many people yet — my mum knows, but that’s about it. Part of me loves the idea of someone casually asking in a few months:“Oh, you’re not drinking tonight?”and me replying:“Actually, I haven’t had a drink in nine months.”

Looking forward

My life feels like it has turned around — and I’m only one month in. I feel equipped, motivated, and supported to tackle the rest of this year. I’m excited to grow my business, show up fully for my family, and keep pushing toward the best version of myself.

Thank you, OYNB — you’ve helped me change my life.