The decision for me to partake in Dry January during my first year of university seemingly came out of the blue. It was met by a great deal of resistance from my flatmates, and much to my surprise, my parents. I think they wanted to protect me from setting myself up for failure. I was a fresher after all, who had garnered a bit of a reputation for placing a bit too much emphasis on playing hard, as opposed to working hard. This did not deter me; my heart was set on the idea that not a drop of alcohol would pass my lips for 31 days.

In a way, part of the appeal to me was the ability to reset

In a way, part of the appeal to me was the ability to reset. I had lost several days to the after-effects of the night before, and needed to find that balance between enjoyment and productivity. This is not to say I regretted my decisions in my first term of university. Coming from North Devon, where there is one nightclub, I had thoroughly enjoyed the options that the nightlife of Birmingham had to offer. Also, the ease of Uber meant the days of running for the last night bus were over. I had made new memories, with new friends, and was definitely having a positive university experience. However, I knew I could continue in my ways.

From my own experience, there is certainly a great number of benefits to participating in Dry January. Moreover, I am struggling to think of a single downside. One of the main things I gained from the month was a sense of self-control which previously I lacked. I did not need to wake up the morning after going out worrying about my actions after one too many. Instead, I could get up with a newfound ease, with a clear head, ready to tackle the day.

I was able to transfer the motivation I had built up for the month-long challenge to exercise

The advantages did not just end there; the discipline Dry January brought to my life definitely had an overall impact. My university work improved, with the grades I received in January my best up to that point. I felt healthier after rediscovering my love for running. I made a promise to myself at the start of the academic year that I would get back into it, even going as far as splashing out on new running shoes. I was able to transfer the motivation I had built up for the month-long challenge to exercise, with the lack of alcohol in my system meaning the running was able to have a positive long-term effect.

I know a big worry I had before the 31 days began was that my social life would take a big hit, whereas, in reality, this was not the case. I was still able to go to the pub, saving money by purchasing soft drinks. It also made me realise that I did not need to drink obscene amounts to enjoy a night out, with a sober visit to a club for my flatmate’s birthday up there with my best at uni. 

The sense of completion I felt when midnight struck on 1st February was incredible. I was overcome with a feeling of pride, having proven to myself that I was able to see something through to the end. The self-belief completing the challenge gave me is something I have kept with me all throughout uni, with my current work ethic directly influenced by my accomplishment. I did drink again, but I know now my limits, and understand how to both work hard, and play hard.

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