She's Sparkling AF: Katelyn Colclazier
Katelyn Colclazier
Vice President Business Development, Meyer Najem
When did you commit to an alcohol-free lifestyle?
June 2023
I chose to go AF when I realized how much I had been relying on alcohol to cope with life’s challenges. Whenever things got hard, my first instinct was to reach for a drink, and I didn’t like the version of myself. I wasn’t showing up as the best version of me, and I wasn’t showing up for the people in my life the way they deserved. So, I made the decision to get sober. Since then, I truly feel like I’ve leveled up in every area of my life. My anxiety has eased, my mental health has improved, and overall, I’m living a happier, healthier life.
I chose to go AF when I realized how much I had been relying on alcohol to cope with life’s challenges. Whenever things got hard, my first instinct was to reach for a drink, and I didn’t like the version of myself. I wasn’t showing up as the best version of me, and I wasn’t showing up for the people in my life the way they deserved. So, I made the decision to get sober. Since then, I truly feel like I’ve leveled up in every area of my life. My anxiety has eased, my mental health has improved, and overall, I’m living a happier, healthier life.
Name an unexpected joy since going alcohol-free.
An unexpected joy I’ve experienced since going alcohol-free is losing weight. My face has slimmed down, my clothes fit more comfortably, and I realized how much my drinking had been affecting me physically. Overall, I just feel so much better, lighter, healthier, and more myself.
Name a hard part about being alcohol-free.
For me, one of the hardest parts about being alcohol-free is the feeling of being judged. I often feel less accepted having zero drinks than I did after having four. There’s this perception that I must not be fun anymore, or that I think less of people who choose to drink, neither of which is true.
I just know that I don’t handle alcohol well, so I made the decision to remove it from my life. Not everyone has a negative relationship with alcohol, but for me, it was the right choice. And honestly, I like to think I’m still a hoot, with or without a drink in my hand!
I just know that I don’t handle alcohol well, so I made the decision to remove it from my life. Not everyone has a negative relationship with alcohol, but for me, it was the right choice. And honestly, I like to think I’m still a hoot, with or without a drink in my hand!
Favorite social media accounts, podcasts, or books about sober living:
Random, but I have enjoyed Pinterest and seeing motivating quotes or Bible verses on sobriety. One of my favorites: "Getting sober meant I had to learn to love myself instead of wanting to escape myself."
Favorite alcohol-free drinks!
My favorite alcohol-free drink is Athletic Brewing and Corona Non Alcoholic with a fresh lime!
Advice for anyone considering going alcohol-free:
Don’t wait, not for “Dry January,” not for the perfect time, and not for anyone else’s approval. Make the decision for you. The people who are truly your tribe won’t question your choice or make you doubt it; they’ll support you every step of the way.
Sometimes I joke that I’ve lived five different lives. Being in the military has exposed me to so many unique experiences and given me a perspective on life that’s different from most. Those experiences have shaped me into who I am today, someone who values emotional intelligence, empathy, and connection. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol and just needs a friend to talk to, I’m here. I’d be happy to share more of my story and offer support in any way I can.