AJ McLean has embraced sobriety, and he cherishes this path with all his heart. As he continues his journey of abstinence, a topic he has candidly addressed over the years as a member of the Backstreet Boys, AJ revealed that he is currently experiencing "the best mental clarity I've ever known" following his decisive step towards sobriety in 2021, which he termed as "my final commitment to staying clean."
"I'm committed to this journey till the very end," AJ confidently shared with People in an interview published on July 10. "It's a daily struggle, but I've finally embraced the advice prevalent in sober communities, and my life has undergone a remarkable positive transformation."
Hosting 'Building the Band,' AJ, who co-parents his children, Elliot, 12, and Lyric, 8, with his ex-wife Rochelle McLean, elaborated that his current state of mind is a testament to a soul-searching trip to Arizona. "I embarked on this journey for a mental health retreat, solely for myself," he said. "I'm a fervent advocate for mental health, and I sought to delve deeper into my own being, uncovering the root causes of my self-destructive actions."
AJ further elaborated, "I've discovered new terms like 'boundaries,' which were foreign to me before. Having these boundaries now is a true blessing. Being part of a group and embodying a persona doesn't define me as an individual; I am Alexander James, and that's who I truly am."
During his time away, the 47-year-old realized he suffered from a severe lack of self-esteem and what he termed as "self-deprecating tendencies." Yet, he has transcended these negative thoughts. "I'm still learning, still evolving, but if someone doesn't appreciate me, it's their loss because I'm a genuinely good person," he asserted.
With his renewed perspective, AJ now perceives the world around him with a fresh pair of eyes, filled with gratitude. "It's the timeless advice of pausing to appreciate the beauty around you," he told Fox News in an interview also published on July 10. "I actually halt, inhale the fragrance of flowers. I possess a newfound confidence—not arrogant or ego-driven, but empowering and authentic."
AJ clarified, "This confidence stems from the relentless work I've put in and continue to commit to throughout my life's journey."
