
Bri Flynn
- Age
- 31
- Sober Since
- January 1, 2010
- Sober For
- 16 Years & 253 Days
01 What it was like
I started drinking when I was 14 years old, but I always remember alcohol being a part of my life. I mean, I grew up in an Irish Catholic family where a 7 course meal was considered 6 pints and a potato.
In the height of my drinking at age 21, I was a complete mess. I was drinking nearly every day, putting myself in physically dangerous situations, and in a deep depression. It was like living in a numb, deadening pain - I knew it wasn’t healthy, but it was all I knew.
The thing is, I knew I had a problem. But the thought of getting sober and having it not work was terrifying to me. Because even if I was miserable drinking, at least I still had the hope that things could get better. Without that, I knew for sure I would be dead.
I started drinking when I was 14 years old, but I always remember alcohol being a part of my life.
02 What happened
I took control of my life on January 1, 2010. Three months prior I had been arrested on multiple counts of aggravated assault and public intoxication, which sent me into a daily drinking binge.
When I woke up on New Years morning, I decided to try to run off the toxins and regret of night before. Somewhere on the run I had the thought, “At least when I get back to my apartment, I can have a drink.”
And in that moment, it hit me: I had a drinking problem. After years of struggling with alcoholism, depression, and physical and emotional abuse, I had hit rock bottom.
I started attending AA meetings and working the steps with a sponsor. About three months later, I started a new job and a new relationship - both of which were live savers to me at that time in my life.
And through working the recovery program with support from strong mentors, I was able to rehabilitate this addiction. And one day at a time, was able to create a life that I desire.
03 What it is like now
When I decided to live life this way, on my terms, everything changed.
I’m not sure when, but at some point everything shifted. I went from thinking, “How could I go the rest of my life without drinking?” to “How could I ever drink again?”
On the outside, I am thriving with a six figure coaching business where I get to help others create mental breakthroughs and take steps toward creating a quality of life that they desire. But on the inside, I have experienced a level of contentment, joy, and peace that I didn’t know was even possible.
Here is what I know to be true: When you get clear on your purpose, remove limiting beliefs, and take massive action - you can create whatever you want in life.
More sober stories
View all →Choose your next step
Find support for your own recovery
Understand sobriety
What is Sobriety? Understanding Your Path to True Freedom
Explore what sobriety truly means in this enlightening article, delving into its journey beyond physical abstinence to emotional and psychological freedom. Discover how therapies like CBT, DBT, and MAT, along with a holistic approach, are key to overcoming addiction. Learn about sobriety's positive impacts on relationships, mental health, and overall well-being, highlighting the profound sense of freedom and fulfillment it brings.
Take the first step
Getting Sober: How to Start Safely and What to Do Today
If you want to get sober but do not know where to begin, start with the immediate questions: how to stop safely, who to ask for help, and what support you will need in the first few days.
Support your recovery
Staying Sober: A Practical Guide to Protecting Your Recovery
Once you stop drinking or using, there is still work, family, stress, and free time to figure out. Staying sober involves building routines and knowing who to call when you want to use again.
Explore warning signs
Signs of Addiction by Substance: When to Ask for Help
You may have noticed changes in your own drinking or drug use, or be worried about someone close to you. Start with the substance involved to read about warning signs and where to get help.



