The festive season brings endless celebrations, but what if you could actually remember them all? In this candid conversation, sober curious mentor Keelie Louise shares her transformation from heavy drinking since age 13 to discovering a life in full colour without alcohol. After losing her grandfather during COVID and realising at 38 that passing out drunk wasn't where she wanted to be, Keelie made the decision that changed everything. Her story reveals why so many midlife women are questioning their relationship with alcohol and discovering that life without it isn't just possible—it's actually better.

Key Takeaways

Alcohol masks deeper issues

For many women, that evening glass of wine isn't about relaxation—it's about avoiding something uncomfortable. Whether it's stress, unfulfilled expectations, or loss of identity after years of caring for others, alcohol becomes a band-aid that actually reduces your capacity to cope. Getting curious about why you reach for that drink reveals what really needs attention.

Your body is trying to tell you something

When hangovers last days, sleep becomes elusive, and one glass affects you like three used to, that's your body signalling it can't process alcohol like before. Perimenopause and menopause amplify these effects. Keelie notes that alcohol stops fat burning for up to 36 hours and halts collagen production for 30 days after heavy drinking.

Social pressure is real but manageable

Set expectations before events by messaging friends about your choice not to drink. At work functions, carry sparkling water in a wine glass if needed. Find one ally who supports your decision. Remember that "no" is a complete sentence—you don't owe anyone an explanation for your choices.

Replace FOMO with a better version

Instead of fearing you'll miss out on fun, develop FOMO for waking up energised, remembering conversations, and attacking your day with clarity. Change your language from "I can't drink" to "I choose not to drink"—it's empowering rather than restrictive.

Small changes create big transformations

You don't need to quit forever to start exploring. Begin with curiosity: How do you feel after one drink? What are you using alcohol to avoid? Who do you want to be? Understanding your values becomes your compass for making choices aligned with the life you actually want.

Moving Forward

The sober curious movement isn't about deprivation, it's about discovering who you are without the mask alcohol provides. As Keelie discovered, removing alcohol revealed a life of energy, genuine connection, and the contentment she'd been seeking at the bottom of a glass. Whether you're questioning your relationship with alcohol or simply wanting to feel better through the festive season, start with curiosity rather than rules. Notice how you feel, question why you reach for that drink, and remember that every small choice toward health is a victory. The magic is in what you gain: clarity, energy, authentic connections, and the person you always knew you could be.

Connect with Keelie

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thesoberhypegirl/

Website: https://keelielouise.com.au/home

Connect with me

• Book your 20-minute connection call https://calendly.com/jo--138/20min?month=2025-07 

• RE-IMAGINE: A personalised 1:1 six-week mentoring programme https://www.joclarkcoaching.com/work-with-me 

• Rediscover You https://www.joclarkcoaching.com/resources/p/rediscover-you

• Share your journey with me by sending me a message on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/joclarkcoaching/ 

• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/joclarkcoaching/⁠

• Email me your success story at [email protected]. 

Remember, there's so much untapped brilliance in midlife women. You are wise, strong, and talented. You just need the space to hear yourself and the courage to act on what you know.

The second half of your life can be even better than the first.