Six Months Sober: A Leadership Journey to Empowerment and Clarity

Six months ago, I made one of the most pivotal decisions of my life: I decided to go sober. It was a decision I had been contemplating for years, but the time was never right—until it was. As a woman in a leadership role and an entrepreneur, I’m constantly juggling multiple responsibilities: running a business, leading a team, being a mom to two daughters aged 3 and 5, co-parenting with my partner who has three step-sons aged 15, 13, and 8 (who are with us 50/50), and managing life with my FIFO partner. The weight of those duties, alongside the pressures of needing to “perform” in both my personal and professional life, often felt overwhelming. And after all of this, I still needed to find time to unwind. For years, I relied on alcohol—weekend drinks, celebrations, and sometimes just to cope with the busy days. But, over time, I realised that the costs of this habit—strained relationships, wasted time, and physical and mental fatigue—were no longer worth it.

One morning, on August 17th, 2024, I woke up and thought, "This is it. I am DONE." The night before had been chaotic. I was exhausted, overworked, and emotionally drained. I had let my frustrations spill over onto the people closest to me, and I knew it was time for a change. I decided to commit to one year sober.

At first, I wasn’t ready to say “never again,” because I didn’t want to feel like I was giving up something I loved. So, I took it one step at a time, telling my closest friends and family while I worked through the decision. I started this journey for myself, with one little goal: Let’s see what I’m made of.

Six months later, the transformation I’ve experienced has far surpassed anything I could have imagined.

The Power of Choice: Leading Your Own Transformation

As women in leadership, we’re used to making tough decisions. We balance teams, businesses, and families, and we’re often the ones others look to for guidance. But how often do we stop and ask ourselves: How are we leading ourselves?

Going sober was one of the most empowering decisions I’ve ever made because it gave me control over my life, my health, and my relationships. And it gave me clarity in a way I didn’t expect. It’s been a journey of self-discipline, self-discovery, and resilience—and it’s been an invaluable part of my growth as both a leader and an entrepreneur.

Six Months In: What I’ve Learned

Has it been easy? Not always. But has it been worth it? Absolutely. Here’s a look at what the past six months have taught me:

The Challenges (Because Growth Doesn’t Come Without Discomfort)

• Partying sober isn’t as “fun” as it used to be: Let’s face it—there’s no escaping the fact that socialising without alcohol feels different. But it’s been a reminder that true connection and fun don’t need a drink to enhance them.

• Letting my hair down takes more effort: Relaxing without the aid of a glass of wine has been a learning curve. But I’m embracing the challenge.

• Chocolate cravings: I’ve found myself indulging in more chocolate—mostly because I’m now more aware of my emotional eating habits when I’m bored or tired!

But the benefits far outweigh the moments of discomfort.

The Wins: How Sobriety Has Empowered My Leadership and Life

• More quality time with family, friends, and clients: The biggest win for me has been the extra time I’ve gained by eliminating hangovers. As a busy mom of two young daughters, with three step-sons in a 50/50 co-parenting arrangement, and a FIFO partner, I simply cannot afford to waste time recovering from a hangover. More time for connection, more time for fun, and no more wasted weekends.

• No hangovers: Imagine waking up after a night out and feeling refreshed, not like you’ve been hit by a truck. No more wasted weekends recovering. Just more energy to give to my work, my family, and myself.

• Clearer focus: As an entrepreneur, clear thinking is everything. Without the fog of alcohol, I’m able to stay on top of my goals, think strategically, and be more present in my business and personal life. I’m able to focus more on my fitness as well, which is something I’ve prioritised now that I’m older and juggling so many roles.

• Better health: I’m more committed to my fitness goals, and I can see the results. Sobriety has allowed me to focus on my body’s needs in a way I hadn’t before—and I feel stronger both mentally and physically.

• Financial freedom: Not spending on alcohol, taxis, and fast food has saved me a significant amount of money. More importantly, I’m putting that money toward things that will enhance my health and well-being.

• Stronger relationships: My communication, patience, and empathy have grown because I’m no longer hiding behind alcohol. I’m more present in my relationships, and that has improved everything from my personal life to my professional interactions.

• Increased self-belief: As women in leadership, we face constant challenges. But sobriety has empowered me to be more confident in my decisions, more intentional in my actions, and more courageous in pursuing my dreams.

• Helping others: The most fulfilling part of this journey has been the ability to guide other women who are considering this path. I’ve had the privilege of coaching several women on their sober journeys, watching them regain control over their lives, and seeing them thrive in ways they hadn’t imagined.

The Bottom Line: A New Kind of Leadership

This six-month journey has taught me that true leadership begins with leading yourself. Sobriety has allowed me to reconnect with my values, my purpose, and my vision for both my personal life and business. It’s been a transformational experience, and I’m only just getting started.

For all the women out there leading businesses, managing teams, and balancing multiple roles, I encourage you to ask yourself: How are you leading your own life? It’s not always easy, but when we make the choice to invest in ourselves, we unlock a new level of strength and clarity that helps us lead with even more power.

Here’s to six months down, and the rest of our lives to live.