One of the big reasons I quit drinking on 28/12/21. I had started getting behind the wheel after a few beers and lying to those close to me how much I'd had to drink.
In the 18/19 season I'd have 3 pints in the ground then drive back. I did the same at Newcastle away that season with a car full of lads, had at least 4 pints in me. One of the lads clocked on and questioned me and I denied it. Didn't have the maturity at the time to admit I was being a total ****. I wasn't very well at the time but no excuse, knobhead behaviour.
I did it after work with colleagues a few times in 2019, I remember having 6 or 7 pints and driving 30 mile home. Covid probably settled me as I didn't get chance to have a beer at the match, which was usually the only time I'd drink.
The final straw for me was Southampton at home on 18/09/21. I did the 3 pints in the ground then drove to a party at my bird's family. Lied to her face and said I had 1 pint at the footy, then had 5 or 6 bottles at the do and drove us both home. She's teetotal and doesn't fully understand alcohol percentages etc. I woke up the next day and I couldn't 100% remember the drive home.
I had 2 more benders after that but never drank and drove again. I had become a lying little fat **** and a fucking hypocritical one at that. I made the decision on holiday after acting a fucking arse in a German market and restaurant and then spending the next day in bed. Thank fuck I never killed anybody and what a brainlessly unforgivable thing that was to get my Mrs in the car with me that night.
I'd say my life has improved significantly since I stopped drinking. I have achieved loads more with the time I now get back, and also own every decision I make. I will never drink again, and would suggest the same to anybody. This festive season is always a killer, but with the right mindset, also a great chance to reset, especially if you have 2 weeks off work to start some positive hobbies.
