When I gave up alcohol, I gained something far more valuable than I ever expected. I gained time and clarity. Suddenly, I had space in my life, and my mind, that used to be consumed by drinking, planning to drink, or recovering from drinking. I needed something new to fill that space. Something positive, creative, and even a little bit challenging.
That’s how I found blogging.
Starting a sobriety blog became one of the most empowering decisions I’ve made in recovery. Not only did it give me a healthy distraction and a place to channel my energy, but it also became a way to connect with others walking the same path.
If you’re sober—or trying to be—and you’ve ever thought about sharing your journey, starting a blog can be a meaningful, technical, and surprisingly fun new hobby. Here’s how to do it and what you’ll need to consider.
Why Blogging Is a Great Sobriety Hobby
Early recovery can be full of emotional ups and downs. Blogging gives you a safe outlet. But unlike journaling in a notebook (which is great too!), a blog lets you share what you’ve learned—and when someone else reads it and says, “Me too,” it creates a connection that helps you both.
Also: blogging is technical. You have to learn new things like hosting, domains, themes, plugins, and SEO. And that’s a good thing. Learning something new challenges your brain and builds confidence. It keeps you engaged in something other than craving or nostalgia. Plus, when your hands are busy and your brain is focused, you’re a lot less likely to spiral.
Step-by-Step: How to Start Your Sobriety Blog
1. Decide Whether You Want to Blog Anonymously
This is a big decision. Some people want to shout their sobriety from the rooftops. Others want to protect their privacy—and that’s okay too. You can:
- Use your real name and story
- Create a pen name and keep personal details vague
- Keep your face out of it, but still write from the heart
Do what feels safe and honest for you.
2. Choose a Name and Buy a Domain
Brainstorm a name that reflects your vibe—something personal, inspiring, or hopeful. Check that the domain (like yoursobrietyjourney.com) is available, then buy it using a domain registrar like Namecheap or GoDaddy.
3. Choose a Hosting Provider
Web hosting is like renting a little space on the internet for your blog. Popular beginner-friendly hosts include:
- Bluehost (often recommended for WordPress beginners)
- SiteGround (great support and speed)
- DreamHost (also beginner-friendly)
Many of these hosts will help you install WordPress with one click.
4. Install WordPress
WordPress is the most popular blogging platform for a reason—it’s customizable, flexible, and widely supported. Your host will usually offer a one-click WordPress install. Once it’s set up, you’ll log in to your new website’s dashboard and begin building!
5. Pick a Theme and Customize It
Think of a theme like your blog’s outfit. WordPress has thousands of free and paid themes that you can use to create a clean, inviting site. Choose something minimal to start with—your words are the focus.
You can customize fonts, colors, layouts, and add features like a contact page or newsletter signup later.
6. Write Your First Posts
Start simple:
- Introduce yourself
- Share why you stopped drinking
- Talk about what helps you stay sober
- Share resources, books, podcasts, or moments of clarity
You don’t have to be a “writer” to write a blog. Just be real. That’s what people connect with.
7. Share It (or Don’t—Yet)
You can keep your blog private while you find your voice, or share it right away with sober friends and communities. Some people find their writing gets even more honest when they know someone else is reading it.
You might even discover a small audience of people who really need to hear your perspective—because it’s different, and it’s valid.
Final Thoughts: Blogging as a Tool for Recovery
Blogging doesn’t have to be big or polished or perfect. It just has to be you. The act of creating something—especially something that might help someone else—is powerful medicine.
Learning the tech side of blogging also gives you a little thrill of accomplishment. You’re not just quitting something; you’re building something new. Something that could grow, evolve, and support you in ways you haven’t imagined yet.
And who knows? Maybe your blog will help someone else decide to quit drinking too. That’s the magic of sharing your story.
If you’re sober and thinking about starting a blog, do it. Not because you have to say something profound—but because you have something true to say. And that’s always worth reading.