Drinking is so ingrained in our culture.... it is everywhere. It's become so strange to me now as I have been sober for 2.5 years that we all celebrate this toxic substance that makes us feel like complete shit the next day. I love my morning routine and I will say that I've pretty much stuck to it and felt good for the past few years.... because I am not drinking.

If these people you are hanging out with think you are a weirdo for not drinking, can you find new people?? I found some sober friends when I decided to quit and that was essential to me at first. Now, I can go out with drinkers and drink something non-alcoholic and it is no big deal to anyone.

I am also introverted but I actually can converse better now that ever before, even when I was drinking. I started getting just plain stupid after I drank and was worthless.

I tried moderating, cutting back... nothing worked because I would just go back to full speed. I had to completely abstain. I think starting with a small goal would be good. Just go for a month and see how you feel?

I relapsed a bunch. I tried quitting for years but got to the point where I really wanted to be sober. That's what it took.

Good luck and I wish you well! Report back! :)