I did Dry January once - this is the one reason why I will never do it again |
If you are considering trying your hand at Dry January in 2026, this is my plea for you to reconsider.
I'm not a big drinker, but a couple of years ago, I challenged myself to go without booze for the month.
The aim was to start my New Year on a fresh slate - leaning into my Resolution for the year of prioritising my health.
The result: I've never thought about alcohol more in my life.
Dry January can be a financial and mental health reset . (PA)
Prioritising my health might sound like a vague goal, but it was designed to be no-pressure so I could still indulge in midnight McDonald's and lazy Sundays.
As I stopped drinking, I began therapy sessions, going swimming again, reading regularly and drinking daily smoothies.
The idea was to introduce small and manageable healthy habits into my life until they became a simple routine.
To cap it all off, I had to give Dry Jan a go for a full rest.
I've never tried the 31-day challenge before - but I did attempt Sober October at university (I lasted a spectacular grand total of 12 days).
Growing up, there was never alcohol in the house, and I continued this rule into adulthood in my own flat.
I very rarely have a drink on a school night - reserving the occasion for catching up with friends I haven't seen in ages.........