Getting to 40 was a climb up the steepest, rockiest mountain. There were times I didn’t think I would make it. The view was bleak as I looked at the pinnacle but couldn’t see what was on the other side, and usually imagined a solid cliff awaited me.

Why do we hold ourselves back from good things? What’s holding you back? Can I suggest you take some advice from a 14-year-old and Nike? Just Do It!

With all of the modern technology we have, it literally blows my mind that we haven’t come up with better solutions for some of the simplest tasks: like guiding a frantic, stupid animal onto a scale.

Gone are the days of boarding a “cancer coffin” for a flight to France. Just like with tobacco, we’re finally getting a ton of data and research showing how harmful alcohol really is. It’s surprising that it’s taken this long for it to become common knowledge.

When we constantly put ourselves in God’s line of vision and make ourselves known to Him, it’s so much easier for Him to see us and connect with us and give us all we need…And it’s so much easier for us to receive.

From the outside looking in, it seems like the frat party never stopped. It just dressed up in suits and ties and moved into a conference center. After work drinks. Drinks with clients. A free-flowing bar in the office. Sales conventions. Trade shows. How do you navigate these landmines sober?!

I asked, “Is it a struggle to not drink in a work environment? After work drinks, drinks with clients, at trade shows and conferences, etc.” Here are the answers…

I felt like a fraud. Hubsy and I meandered around the silent auction with glasses in hand. He had gin and tonic; I had tonic water with a lime. They looked exactly the same, and I felt guilty.

Some people can do moderation and others can’t. The others are “all or nothing” kind of people.

10 responses you can use when people ask why you’re not drinking:

1. I have a busy day tomorrow and need to sleep well tonight.

2. Alcohol fogs up my brain too much.

3. I’m detoxing.

4. I’m trying to lose a few pounds for… (fill in the blank).

5. Alcohol gives me diarrhea.

6. I’m designated driver tonight.

7. Alcohol bloats me and this shirt is too tight for that.

8. I don’t like the taste.

9. I don’t feel like it.

10. I’m training to climb a mountain.