Sara and Heather dive into what it means when that initial "spark" from early sobriety fades—and how to get it back. Whether you're 30 days in or six years alcohol-free, this episode is for anyone who's ever wondered, "Why doesn't this feel exciting anymore?"
In this episode, we cover:
🌟 What “the spark” is in early sobriety—and why it doesn’t always stick around
🔄 The Pink Cloud vs. The Wall: Understanding different phases of the alcohol-free journey
😮💨 Why milestones can sometimes feel... underwhelming
🧠 The science behind fading memories and romanticizing alcohol (hello, Fading Affect Bias)
🛑 What complacency can look like—and how to recognize when you're in it
🧰 How to reignite your spark: fresh tools, goals, routines, and even tea rituals
🧘♀️ The surprising power of stillness and spiritual reconnection
🧠 Tips for re-engaging with your “why” and updating your mindset
📓 Why journaling your progress matters (even if you're years into this)
🪴 How propagating houseplants became the new party trick 🙃
Favorite quotes from this episode:
🗣 “Motivation fades, but self-trust grows with every step you take.” — Sara
🗣 “I’m worth a good life without alcohol. So is everyone around me.” — Heather
🗣 “Sometimes the spark is in the quiet.” — Sara
🗣 “It’s okay to not feel fireworks all the time on your alcohol-free journey. The real spark is showing up for yourself anyway.” — Sara
If you’re in a low-spark moment, these questions will help guide you back to what matters.
(This helps reconnect with your original “why” in a deeper, more grounded way.)
What signs of growth or change have I overlooked lately?
(We often miss the subtle but powerful shifts—this brings them to light.)
If I trusted that this phase was temporary, how would I choose to show up today?
(This brings compassion and forward momentum to what might feel like a stall.)
Helpful Articles & Sources
Covers common emotional stages in recovery, including “The Wall” phase (45–120 days).
👉 https://thedacare.org/news-and-events/healthy-living/the-roadmap-to-recovery
When You Find Your Motivation Dwindling – Hired Power
Talks about losing momentum and how to reignite it.
👉 https://hiredpower.com/blog/when-you-find-your-motivation-dwindling
Understanding Anhedonia in Addiction Recovery: A Timeline Breakdown – Arrowwood Addiction Treatment Center
Breaks down how the brain’s reward system rebalances after quitting substances.
👉 https://arrowwoodaddictiontreatmentcenter.com/understanding-anhedonia-in-addiction-recovery-a-timeline-breakdown
Fading Affect Bias: Why You Romanticize Drinking in Recovery – Monument
Explains the psychological tendency to misremember alcohol as more positive over time.
👉 https://joinmonument.com/resources/fading-affect-bias-alcohol-recovery
What Is the Most Common Time of Relapse? – Seacrest Recovery Center
Discusses relapse triggers, especially during stressful transitions.
👉 https://seacrestrecoverycenter.com/what-is-the-most-common-time-of-relapse
❤️🔥 Whether your spark is blazing or barely flickering, you’re not alone. We’re here with you, cheering you on every step of the way.
🎉 Want More Support on Your Journey?
Join the Daymakers Community or sign up for 1-on-1 coaching with Heather!
✨ Get personalized support, tools, and encouragement for your alcohol-free journey.
Daymakers Community: Weekly coaching calls, private messaging threads, and a supportive community. Learn more here.Heather’s 1-on-1 Coaching: Tailored support to help you navigate your alcohol-free life.If this episode resonated with you, share it with a fellow sober baddie and leave a comment on Spotify or YouTube. Let’s break free from the guilt trap together! 💛
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Looking for support on your alcohol free journey? Consider joining us in the Day Makers Community. CLICK HERE for all the details.
Want some 1-on-1 support on your alcohol free journey? Work with Heather as your alcohol free coach. CLICK HERE to start working with Heather today.
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Follow the podcast on Social Media:
IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod
Follow Sara on Social Media:
TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial
Follow Heather on Social Media:
IG: @theheatherleecollective
TikTok: @thealcoholfreecoach
