finding balance: how i replaced my bar addition

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In I' a true gy'II have alI I s been a gyenthusiast, but I had a reputation as a professional bar hopper. Growing up in an Irish Catholic family in Wisconsin, I was immersed in the vibrant bar scene. I knew all the bar owners, had seen countless bands, and had friends at every watering hole in town. Those days were filled with joy and camaraderie, and I cherished them for a long time.

Then came the pandemic, a time that turned my life upside down. I lost my business of 20 years and, heartbreakingly, my father. With no assistance during those challenging times and my savings dwindling, I found myself on the brink of losing my home. In a frantic attempt to regain control, I took an hourly job at a hotel, all while being promised a sales position—my long-time career. To make ends meet, I also started Door Dashing after my shifts and on weekends. Before I knew it, I was juggling three jobs and teetering on the edge of burnout. 

Amidst this whirlwind, the last thing on my mind was hitting the bars. Instead, I made a commitment to myself: no matter what, I would keep going to the gym. I understood that maintaining my energy levels was crucial, and that diet and exercise were essential for my survival during this tumultuous period.

Fast forward four years, and my life looks vastly different:

- I noticed that I had lost most of my "friends" from those bar-hopping days.
- Feelings of isolation crept in.
- I experienced a sense of FOMO (fear of missing out) for about a year.
- My empathy for alcoholics, including my partner, had diminished.

But it wasn’t all doom and gloom. I found strength in implementing the principles of Atomic Habits, establishing firm boundaries, and focusing on my personal growth. As a result, my body and skin transformed in ways I never imagined. Financially, my earnings tripled, and I even started a new business. 

Most importantly, I began to build my tribe—a community of like-minded individuals who inspire and uplift each other. 

This journey has taught me the power of resilience, the importance of self-care, and the beauty of transformation. While I may have stepped back from the bar scene, I’ve gained so much more in return. Here’s to new beginnings and the incredible journey ahead!

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