As the holidays approach, do you fear that you may have trouble avoiding alcohol? If you cannot consume alcohol or don’t want to, then our list of tips on how to get through this challenge is helpful. Remember, empowering yourself with more knowledge is always beneficial and can inspire you to stay strong and sober. Here are some tips to help you avoid holiday drinking while still allowing you to enjoy the festivities.
One of the reasons holidays are so difficult is because of the expectation to be "festive" which often implies eating and drinking. But if you remember that most holidays are religiously based, then you can focus your attention on celebrating with family, friends, and co-workers in a deeper way. What do the holidays mean to you and what is your plan for staying sober? Can you celebrate the joy of giving, participating, and being appreciative? Here are some tips to help:
Skip the Party
If you get invited to a party where it will be very difficult to avoid booze, then your best option might be to arrive early and leave early or to skip it altogether. Some holiday events will be easier than others to attend without drinking so pick and chose. For example, a work related holiday party is an easy one to stay sober. Not only will you look good in the eyes of your bosses, but you can always say you have some work to catch up on and need to stay clear headed. One the other hand, if you get invited to a friend's social event and you fear that you may be tempted to drink, skip the party. There's no reason to put yourself at risk.
Choose a Different Drink
The drinks at holiday parties are tempting, champagne, fruity cocktails, eggnog and expensive wines. Holiday parties make alcohol readily available and even encourage drinking. However, decide in advance what you will drink during the evening so you will be prepared when someone asks you. "I'll have a cranberry spritz with lemon please". Or you can ask "what's the non-alcoholic specialty?" You may stand out for a moment, but others will respect your choice. You can even bring a delicious fresh juice, warming cider, or lemonade to present to your hosts.
Take a Sober Friend
If you get invited to a party that you really want to attend but still fear you may be tempted to drink, then take a non-drinking friend and agree to be the designated driver. It will be this friend's duty to help you get through the evening without drinking. Your friend is there to be your support system.
Choose a Different Activity
If you want to spend time with your friends around the holidays, then choose an activity that doesn't revolve around drinking. Create a fun and sober social gathering such as taking your friends out for coffee, ice skating, or meeting them for lunch.
Stay Strong
The best way to stay strong is to make a commitment BEFORE the holidays are in full swing and temptations are high. If you slip, it's ok, it happens. Apologize to yourself for the misstep and resume your commitment. For every event you get through sober, reward yourself mentally by acknowledging your effort and hard work. Celebrate Sober!
