Getting back on the wagon

[Wagonner]

I didn't drink at all from 1 Jan until about 15 March. I was feeling great. Now feeling like a complete idiot- had a couple of drinks one night and now back into full-on excess.

I'd like to start again but part of my completist mindset is saying "ok, you can start again on 1/1/24". Can anyone offer any advice on how to start again now? I found the clean sheet really motivating- how do I recreate that?

I think you chose 1st Jan as a way to self-sabotage. Oh it HAS to be the first of the year or it doesn't count. Why? That makes no sense, but it gives you permission to drink for another 8 months before you 'have' to try again.

What's actually important? Stopping drinking, or stopping drinking on 1st Jan?

Literally the best day to stop drinking is today. It's always today.

You answered your own question there! You were feeling great now you feel terrible. Why feel terrible for the rest of the year?! Quit today! No time like the present!

I'm unable to get back on the wagon unless it's a Sunday - miss that and I have to wait another week - it's annoying and bizarre but I agree no time like the present if you can!! - you will feel so much better for it tomorrow morning (as you know) and once one day is done you will start to build momentum.

I think it helps to build yourself up and get focused for the task ahead.

Instead of thinking “when shall I start”, maybe think about how long you want to to keep drinking and when that needs to end. How many, more than just one drinks, how much drinking at home just because, how many more less than great mornings.
You don’t want to let a blip of a week turn into 2 or 3 weeks. The sooner you get back to not drinking the less of a mistake the last few days have been.

How about reframing it that you've had 2.5 months sober and then a week long blip. An experiment to see if you can moderate which very clearly proved that you can't. So you can jump straight back on and it will be a helpful learning experience, or keep drinking and sink further into alcoholism. Seems a no brainier to me.
Have you read 'Alcohol Explained'? It's v helpful. Or go and read Clare Pooley's blog