Lighting Up: How I Stopped Smoking, Drinking, and Everything Else I Loved in Life Except Sex

Lighting Up: How I Stopped Smoking, Drinking, and Everything Else I Loved in Life Except Sex

Lighting Up: How I Stopped Smoking, Drinking, and Everything Else I Loved in Life Except Sex by Susan Shapiro is a candid memoir about her journey to overcome multiple addictions. Shapiro shares her struggles with cigarettes, alcohol, and other substances, weaving humor and honesty into her account of facing her dependencies head-on. At Today’s Sober Women, we appreciate Shapiro’s unfiltered storytelling and the way she tackles the challenges of quitting without losing her sense of humor. Her journey is a reminder that recovery isn’t always perfect, but it’s worth the effort.

Key Principle #1: Acknowledging the Struggle
Shapiro’s journey begins with accepting how deeply her addictions were intertwined in her daily life. She shows that real change starts when we are honest with ourselves about the depth of our struggles.

Key Principle #2: The Power of Therapy
A significant part of Shapiro’s recovery is her relationship with her therapist, who helps her confront the emotional issues underlying her addictions. This book highlights the importance of seeking professional support in recovery.

Key Principle #3: Finding New Passions
Shapiro finds new joys and passions in life after quitting, proving that giving up old habits opens space for new, healthier interests. At Today’s Sober Women, we believe that embracing these new passions is key to long-term sobriety.

Key Principle #4: Humor in Healing
Despite the challenges, Shapiro’s humor shines through, reminding us that it’s okay to laugh at ourselves along the way. Recovery can be tough, but finding the lighter side makes the journey more manageable.

Key Takeaway: Embrace honesty and find the humor in your journey. Today, focus on being truthful with yourself about your struggles and finding joy in small victories.

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