Since getting clean and sober from drugs and alcohol, my life has completely changed.

Yes, it has definitely changed for the better, and I cannot imagine ever going back to how my life used to be, but there are a lot of adjustments that I have to make.

Back when I drank, the thing I enjoyed most about going out was the social aspect. I loved getting to see everyone and just having a good time.

Obviously, I no longer go out anymore. I am totally fine with that. But, there are times I wish that I could go out and just enjoy the social part of it without drinking or drugging.

There is where my brain is trying to trick me. It is not possible for me to go out to the bars without having a drink.

This is one of the many things I have had to adjust to.

I spend most of my free time with my friends doing sober activities.

We love to watch TV. I started playing video games again, something I have not done in years. I got into coloring and found several adult coloring books that I really enjoy. I have also enjoyed playing board games and cards.

I know that it seems easy for someone to just quit drinking and using drugs.

And it is, but the hard part is staying clean and sober and finding other activities to replace your old habits with.

People do not realize that one of the keys to sobriety is changing your whole lifestyle. You have to simply do this in order to keep up with your sobriety. It is just how it is supposed to be.

I think the hardest part of my sobriety is getting used to the fact that I do not have the opportunity anymore to go out and be social at bars like I used to. And I have accepted this.

I have learned that there are other ways I can go and be social and hang with friends without ever being in the presence of alcohol and drugs.

It is not easy by any means, but I know that I can do it. I have made it this far, and I have no plans to throw away all the hard work and achievements that I have accomplished throughout this process.

Andrew Paisley is a senior journalism major. He can be reached at 581-2812 or at abpaisley@eiu.edu.