In a culture that celebrates with a glass and de-stresses with a bottle, choosing to stay sober can feel like a lonely journey. But after 110 days, I’ve realized that the quietest battles are often the ones most worth winning.

The “Invisible” Milestone

“I’m sure nobody cares.” It’s a thought that crosses the mind of many in recovery. Unlike a promotion, a wedding, or a marathon finish line, there are no trophies for the days you don’t do something. There is no crowd cheering when you choose sparkling water at a dinner party or when you navigate a stressful Tuesday without a crutch.

But here is the truth: 110 days is a monumental achievement. It is 2,640 hours of conscious, difficult, and brave decision-making.

Reclaiming the Self

One hundred and ten days ago, life looked different. Sobriety isn’t just about the absence of a substance; it’s about the presence of self. In the first 30 days, the body begins to heal. By day 60, the “brain fog” starts to lift. By day 90, the brain’s dopamine receptors—the systems that allow us to feel pleasure from simple things like a sunset or a good meal—begin to reset.

At 110 days, I am no longer just “quitting”; I am “building.” I am building a version of myself that handles stress with resilience instead of escape, and joy with clarity instead of a blur.

The Power of the Count

Why do we count the days? Because every day added to that tally is a brick in a foundation that didn’t exist before. 110 days means I’ve survived:

• The initial physical cravings.

• The social awkwardness of saying “no.”

• The raw emotions that I used to drown out.

• The moments of boredom where the old habit used to whisper the loudest.

A Message to the Quiet Warriors

If you are reading this and you feel like your progress is invisible—know that it is seen. Recovery is a “silent marathon.” To the outside world, you are just living your life. But to those who know the weight of the struggle, you are performing a miracle every single morning you wake up and choose yourself.

I am proud of my 110 days. Not because I’ve reached a finish line, but because I’ve finally learned how to run the race.