I’ve witnessed more sellers struggling with addiction than ever before. The constant pressure to perform often leads sellers to turn to unhealthy behaviors, vices, and addictions as a way to temporarily cope and escape. If you struggle with addiction, you are not alone. 

The biggest challenge is that most addictions are shrouded in shame and secrecy. And shame compounds feelings of inadequacy and worthlessness, which leads to seeking immediate relief and thus continuing the shame cycle. 

Whether it’s alcohol, drugs, porn, food, video games, or social media, addiction is on the rise everywhere in our dopamine-seeking society. And sales tends to attract people with addictive personalities to begin with and presents constant opportunities to indulge, which makes things even harder at conferences, social events, SKO’s, or customer meetings. 

I can’t tell you how many reps and Managers I’ve seen get fired for crossing the line at an SKO or holiday party, where they got hammered and acted inappropriately. 

I have been sober for 4 years and 8 months, and my life has been blessed beyond words since the moment I entered recovery. During my time at Salesforce, I joined an employee-led Resource Group called Soberforce, which provided support and connection for sober and sober-curious employees at work. 

This group, combined with my 12 step program, therapy, and a great sponsor, provided me with a clear path to recovery to face my demons and emerge stronger than ever. 

Soberforce was co-founded by Marin Nelson, who has since become CEO and co-founder of Sobrynth, which provides 24×7 assistance for employees and their families who are seeking support with immediate addiction needs and for those employees who are sober-curious. 

I had the honor of interviewing Marin on this month’s Fireside Chat. Our mutual goal is to de-stigmatize addiction so people can feel more comfortable discussing their struggles and get the help they need. When you shine a light on your shadows, they no longer control you. 

The most free person in the world is the one with nothing to hide!!! 

During the Fireside Chat, we discussed several topics, including: 

1. The rising trends of addiction in the workplace, and the impact on performance

2. Sign that you may be struggling with addiction

3. How to get help before you hit a “rock bottom” 

4. Why community is the greatest elixir for recovery

5. Where to go for help if you are sober or sober-curious

It was a powerful conversation and long overdue. I hope this conversation can serve as a catalyst for finding the help you need. 

You are not alone, and help is available. If you struggle with addiction, feel free to reach out to me or Marin and we can point you in the right direction to get the help you need.