197. Cheryl Strayed Tells Us What the Hell to Do Next

Mindful Drinking

Cheryl Strayed, alongside Amanda and Glennon Doyle, explores the concept of mindful drinking, challenging the cultural binaries surrounding alcohol consumption. Cheryl shares her personal realization that alcohol, while not overtly destructive in her life, was subtly impacting her health and clarity. She emphasizes the importance of questioning whether alcohol truly benefits one's life, rather than simply asking if there's a problem 1.

Like a lot of stuff that a lot of us wake up to and realize, wait a minute, we've been fed this false binary that it's like you're either this or that, you're good or bad, you're an alcoholic or you're fine, whatever.

--- Cheryl Strayed

This discussion highlights the growing movement towards mindful drinking and the sober curious, encouraging individuals to reflect on their relationship with alcohol 2.

   

Sobriety Journeys

The conversation shifts to personal sobriety journeys, where Cheryl and Abby Wambach discuss the transformative power of embracing sobriety. Abby, who has been sober for nearly seven years, reflects on how sobriety allows her to be fully present and creative in her life 3. Cheryl emphasizes the importance of replacing alcohol with healthier habits and the role of connection in this journey.

It's a powerful thing. I mean, that's what connection is, that we, for a moment, become one.

--- Cheryl Strayed

Glennon Doyle adds that reaching out for support and validation can be a healing and motivating act, helping individuals to continue on their path to sobriety 4.

   

Embracing Change

Cheryl Strayed discusses the discomfort that often accompanies change and how it can be a catalyst for personal growth. She shares her experience of replacing alcohol with healthier alternatives, such as sleep and connection, to dull the edge of discomfort 5. Cheryl reflects on her journey of self-care and the importance of prioritizing oneself, especially after her COVID-19 experience in Greece.

I emerged from this Airbnb and just sat on the street writing that letter to myself. And it was all about how the primacy of the body and how I need to care for me.

--- Cheryl Strayed

This journey has led her to explore new ways of living, where alcohol is consumed as infrequently as birthday cake, highlighting the potential for change and self-discovery 6.