Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore the subjective experiences of those who are abstinent from alcohol to recover from alcoholism. Methods: A qualitative descriptive study design was used. Results: In this study, 3 clusters of themes and 7 themes were derived: 1. Decision for abstinence - 1) an unavoidable choice and 2) choice due to insight to alcoholism; 2. Difficulties to endure - 1) difficulty with giving up and 2) difficulty with handling; 3. Adaptation to a new lifestyle - 1) satisfaction with trivial rounds of daily life, 2) finding new values, and 3) restoration of broken relationships. Conclusion: Abstinence experience among people with alcohol use disorder is decided with a variety of personal motives. Abstinence experience includes giving up relationships with people and pleasure with alcohol as well as difficulties with enduring stress without alcohol. However, participants who were abstinent from alcohol were satisfied with their new lifestyles, had new life values, and were respected by their family and others. Therefore, healthcare providers needed to understand abstinence experience to support people with alcohol use disorder who have passed through a difficult process of alcohol abstinence.