Millie Gooch: Founder of Sober Girl Society on Finding Space to Think
Between studying, writing, and running Sober Girl Society, Millie Gooch’s mind was full noise. A few slow days at Cadno gave her the space to breathe and a bit of clarity she didn’t know she needed.
After years of drinking and hangxiety started to take a toll on her mental health, Millie Gooch decided to give up alcohol. Seven months later she started in the Sober Girl Society to connect with other women looking to change their lifestyle and in 2021 she published her debut book The Sober Girl Society Handbook. Sober Girl Society is now the largest community for sober and sober curious women in the world, providing tips, resources and events for anyone who wants to drink less or give up entirely. We sat down with Millie to
Tell us a bit about yourself?
In 2018, at the age of 26 and after a problematic relationship with alcohol, I got sober. Nearly a year later, I founded Sober Girl Society to create a supportive community for women who wanted to embrace a sober or more curious lifestyle. Since then, I've become an author and speaker, sharing my journey and helping others navigate theirs.
Being an author, founder, and content creator, alongside studying for your MSc, we can imagine your schedule isn't super open. Do you do anything to prioritise taking time out as opposed to succumbing to the stress of the hustle?
I’m not the best at it BUT I am forever trying to make a conscious effort to take time out and it’s always something I am super aware of. Especially as a non-drinker, you really become go-go-go all the time so it’s always something I’m thinking about. I recently bought a paddle board though, so that’s been my latest way to unwind.
You recently went out to our Cadno cabin in Wales, where was your head at before you left?
All over the shop tbh! This year has probably been the most hectic yet and it can be hard going from study mode to work mode to personal mode.
How did you feel when you got back?
I think the best way to describe it is clear. I never really have time to just sit down and organise the thoughts in my brain. I don’t feel like I need to completely ‘switch off’ because I actually don’t think my brain has that function but being able to just sit and think really helped me get clarity on a lot of things.
What was the highlight of your experience?
Honestly, I think it was saving a sheep we found stuck in a fence whilst out looking for sticks. Felt pretty heroic after that. That and the views.
What would you say to someone thinking of getting Unyoked?
Do it! I wouldn’t even describe myself as the most outdoorsy person but I loved every minute of it.
To find out more about the Sober Girl Society head to their website. You can find Millie's book The Sober Girl Society Handbook in bookstores and online.