I’ve Been Sober For a Year — These Are The Things That Helped Me Through Dry January and Beyond

For the past five years, I’ve participated in Dry January. Well, actually, I took Dry January one step further in 2024 and decided to quit drinking altogether. I can confidently say that it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made — the benefits are truly life-changing.

While I don’t expect anyone to completely ditch alcohol (it’s a very personal decision), I do get giddy when January rolls around because of how popular Dry January has become. The thought of other people experiencing the mental clarity that comes with swapping a gin and tonic for a mocktail makes me giddy! That said, choosing not to drink isn’t easy by any means. Everyone will go through different trials on their journey, but there are things that can make the process easier.

The below items are what helped me through my first year of sobriety. Keep reading to discover informative books, relaxing mocktails and more. You’ve got this!

Whether you plan on doing a dry month or want to go longer without imbibing, it’s really valuable to find your why. Figuring out your goals when it comes to alcohol is easier said than done, but this book can help. Filled with thought-provoking prompts, this workbook forces you to get real about your relationship with alcohol and what you hope to change, while also offering tips and tricks for staying on track. You’re also more likely to follow through with your goals and aspirations if you write them down, and this book gives you designated space to do so.

$16 (originally $23) at Amazon!

My favorite beverage before I stopped drinking was rosé, and I hated the thought of cheersing with a soda on special occasions. This N/A rosé is the closest thing I’ve tasted to the real deal. It’s not too sugary sweet nor does it remind me of grape juice. Pouring myself a glass feels like a little treat, and I’m able to enjoy it even more knowing I won’t wake up in the morning with a dreaded hangover.

$44 at Amazon!

Once I ditched the booze, my new vice became coffee. While I enjoy espresso or a fancy latte every once in a while, I prefer to drink this mushroom alternative to coffee. It enhances my energy and focus while also improving digestion — and it actually tastes great, unlike some other options that remind me of dirt. Plus, I like that all I need to do is stir it into water or milk. I even like adding it to my pre-workout shake for an extra boost before the gym.

$32 (originally $40) at Amazon!

When I go to parties, I like having these mocktail cans on hand for a few reasons: 1. They’re pretty. 2. They taste good. 3. With the included adaptogens, I feel more at ease in social settings — sans alcohol. Sometimes I’ll sip on one before bed for better sleep, too.

$36 (originally $42) at Amazon!

When I was debating what I wanted my relationship with alcohol to be, this book opened a whole new world of possibilities. I discovered what the sober curious movement entailed, began learning about the positive changes I’d experience once I ditched the booze and ultimately realized that I could live a full life without alcohol. I consider it a must-read for anyone wanting to cut back.

$12 (originally $18) at Amazon!

Author Sarah Levy beautifully described so many of my own feelings surrounding alcohol in her memoir. Reading this book made me feel like I was reading my own story, helping me recognize that my drinking patterns weren’t the healthiest and were harming my relationships. It can feel scary cutting out something that is so ingrained in our culture, but Sarah’s vulnerability proves that it’s possible and that there’s a full technicolored life waiting for you once you put down the glass.

$14 (originally $19) at Amazon!