Wife and friends prefer me NOT sober…

I’ve had serious discussions with my wife and friends about my drinking. While they are supportive of me, no matter what….they all prefer the more laid back/less shy/more outgoing person I am after 3-4 beers. My wife says I’m more fun, more loving and my friends say I’m more fun, more talkative and everyone has a better time (including me) after I have a few beers.

With that said…I ALSO prefer myself after a couple of beers. I feel like I enjoy life more after a couple drinks. I’m an artist/musician and I am often involved in large groups. I can honestly say I have no drive to play/perform when I have been sober. I’m also not social and very introverted. The longest I have been sober since I was young is a year-ish. The ONLY reason I want to stop is because I’m getting older and know it’s unhealthy. I WISH I could get the feeling of “a few beers” without drinking. I often say I’m not physically addicted to the substance…but I am severely socially addicted.

Does this sound familiar, and how did you eventually come to terms with quitting or cutting back?