More people are choosing a “Dry January” these days, whether they want to give their liver a break after the holidays, save money, or simply see how they feel without drinking. One well-known supporter of the challenge is Dr. Alex George, who has been sober for three years. He stopped drinking in 2022 after the death of his younger brother, and he has spoken openly about how that loss pushed him to rethink his habits. In a recent video marking his sobriety milestone, he shared practical tips for getting through a month without alcohol, which you can watch here.
His first message is to get clear on your reason and make it easy to remember when motivation fades. It sounds obvious, but a vague goal can crumble the moment you hit a stressful day or a social invite. He suggests writing your “why” down, even if it’s just a note on your phone. Whether it’s better sleep, fewer hangovers, more energy, or a personal reset, clarity helps you stay committed.
He also argues that Dry January works best when it’s more than a passive rule. Going in with the mindset of “I just won’t drink” can turn the month into a countdown where you focus only on what you’re missing. Instead, he encourages treating it as a deliberate choice with a purpose, something you’re actively building rather than simply avoiding. That shift can make the experience feel less like deprivation and more like progress.
Social life is often the trickiest part, so he advises changing the habit, not your entire calendar. The goal isn’t to hide at home for four weeks, but to find ways to connect that don’t revolve around alcohol. He recommends planning at least one meaningful social interaction each weekend, then shaping it around an alcohol-free activity. A walk, a brunch, a class, a movie night, or a relaxed catch-up can keep your relationships strong while you test a new routine.
He also highlights the value of finding non-alcoholic drinks you genuinely enjoy, especially if you miss the ritual of having something special in your hand. The point isn’t to punish yourself, but to give yourself options that still feel like a treat. If alcohol has been your go-to stress reliever, he suggests replacing it with something that can actually serve the same purpose, such as exercise, music, or talking with a friend. He frames this as choosing “earned” dopamine, the kind that comes from movement, time outdoors, a cold shower, or good company, rather than the quick hit alcohol provides.
Finally, he reminds people to pay attention to cravings and the possibility of withdrawal symptoms, and to speak with a doctor if they’re unsure what to expect or when to seek help. On the brighter side, he notes that many people quickly notice the benefits, especially waking up without hangovers, feeling more energy, and starting to enjoy mornings again. If you’ve ever taken a break from alcohol, share what helped you most and what surprised you along the way in the comments.
