For those considering quitting alcohol, there’s often a nagging thought that a middle ground might exist between full sobriety and addictive use. This idea, sometimes called “the third door,” is a tempting notion: with enough effort, one can find a middle-ground between stopping completely and problematic drinking. It’s a door that many of us try, but ultimately find exhausting and unsustainable. Here are some key reasons why “the third door” ultimately fails and how fully embracing sobriety can lead to a better, more fulfilling life.