Where do I start on the benefits?! They’re literally endless – Michael Lyons

Breaking the binge–hangover cycle

I originally joined OYNB in July 2019 after some heavy drinking episodes at Glastonbury and in Ibiza. I’d been binge drinking since I was 16 – less often as I got older, but much more heavily. Nights out were becoming risky, with blackouts, dangerous situations and behaviour I wasn’t proud of around people I care about.

Mornings of regret became the norm: waking up with that sick feeling, trying to piece together what I’d said or done. The depression and anxiety in the days after were becoming unbearable. It was classic Jekyll and Hyde, and I knew I was sabotaging myself. I could see I was risking the things that mattered most – especially being the best husband and dad I can be to my two young sons.

Hitting my turning point

In 2019 I managed 77 days alcohol-free and felt great, but I fell off the wagon in a big way when a planned AF drink with two mates turned into a full session. After that, I struggled to find the discipline to restart the challenge.

Then Christmas 2020 happened. After a particularly heavy Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, I woke up on Boxing Day with that familiar knot of regret and dread. I didn’t know exactly what I’d said or done, and I was done with that feeling. I promised myself I’d take the longest break from alcohol I’d ever taken. Since then I’ve been going strong and haven’t regretted the decision once.

I’m on the 12-month challenge, but my goal is to identify as alcohol-free for the long term.

Seeing alcohol with new eyes

With some proper distance from drinking, I’ve realised just how embedded alcohol is in everyday life. Choosing an AF path can feel tough and lonely at times, but it also puts you in a small minority of people proving you can live an incredible life without alcohol.

During my first challenge, I really struggled to explain to others why I wasn’t drinking. I saw it as punishment for years of going too far, and I felt like the odd one out who had “a problem” while everyone else was normal.

This time my mindset is completely different. I’m still experimenting with what to say, but the tone is much more positive. I genuinely don’t feel like I’m missing out by not drinking.

When other people are triggered

One of the harder parts of this journey has been realising how much my choice can trigger others. Some people pull away, don’t understand, or probably talk negatively behind my back. But it’s also highlighted the friends who support me no matter what’s in my glass.

In the end, I have to make the right decision for me. No one else is walking in my shoes or living my life. I’ve embraced AF beer and spirits, and I’m surprisingly happy with sparkling water and lime as my go-to (rock ’n’ roll, I know).

The benefits so far

The benefits are honestly endless:

• better health and fitness

• clearer skin

• higher energy levels

• more mental clarity

• better stress management

• more productivity

• more time for the things that matter

But the absolute best one is this: waking up fresh.

No hangovers. No shame. No apologising. No blanks in the memory. Just knowing what I’ve said and done, and being a positive example for my kids and the people around me.

That alone would be enough – everything else is a bonus. This way of living feels limitless, and I’m excited about how much more I can achieve, both personally and professionally.

The support that keeps me going

The daily emails and videos have been fantastic, especially in the early days when I was forming new habits. They kept me focused and reminded me why I started.

The Facebook group has been the real game changer. Being able to talk with thousands of people on the same path, facing similar challenges and wins, is incredibly powerful. It’s inspiring to see members with several years AF and how much better their lives have become.

Looking ahead

I’ve reached a point where I can clearly see alcohol was taking far more than it ever gave. Cravings are rare, and AF drinks are more than enough when I want something special.

A new identity is emerging: the “real me” – fresh, energetic, hard-working, honest and reliable. This challenge has changed my life for the better and given me a fresh start as I approach 40.

Choosing to stop drinking is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, and my intention is to stay on this path for the long term.