To be honest I’m a total homebody, so I don’t find myself in too many situations that make me feel uncomfortable about not drinking. However, when I first started this journey last August I was nervous how people would respond when I told them I wasn’t drinking.
I’ve learned that if people are real friends they won’t care and will make you feel comfortable regardless. I’m not judging them and (hopefully) they aren’t judging me. We are all doing our own thing and if it looks different that’s fine!!
Common concerns about not drinking in social settings is:
- How will my friends react?
- Can I still have fun without alcohol?
- Will I feel socially uncomfortable without liquid courage?
- Can I stand up to peer pressure?
My tips to help you be successful (and still have fun) not drinking socially:
Start with people you feel very comfortable with and who you know will be supportive.
Have an honest conversation with your closest friends and family that you spend the most time with. Your good friends will support your decision and not make a big deal out of it. If they have a negative reaction, tease you, peer pressure you, or nag you about it…honestly that says more about them than you and maybe you need to reevaluate that relationship.
Have a mocktail plan
If you have a drink in your hand people will often assume it’s alcoholic and leave you alone. If you’re at a bar or a party get a Diet Coke or a club soda and lime and no one will know the difference. If you’re going to friend’s house, bring something you like to drink along with you. There is no need to make an announcement that you’re not drinking. No one cares and if they do it’s their problem really. Just do you 😉
When it comes to mocktails they shouldn’t be a total sugar bomb IMO. I’d rather just drink water than ask the bartender for a mocktail that includes 27 grams of sugar and save that for dessert 😉
I’m also lazy at home and not going to make some elaborate mocktail.
At home I like drinking sparkling water or a Poppi in the evening. I also recently bought these mocktails to have on hand when I wanted something a little more fun. I will sometimes pour it into a wine glass to feel more festive.
Have a response ready
People are nosy and might have questions. Decide how you’d like to respond. I tell people the truth that I took a break from drinking last summer and I liked the way it felt, so I kind of kept going. It honestly might start a great conversation as there is a shift in people become curious about cutting back on alcohol.
You can also say you’re driving and not drinking tonight if you don’t know the people well and want to move the conversation along.
Make plans with your friends that don’t involve alcohol
Go on a walk, take a workout class together, grab lunch, get your nails done, or spa day. Pick a setting to meet with friends where you feel more comfortable in knowing it won’t involve alcohol.
Hope this helps anyone trying to navigate cutting back on alcohol while still trying to have a social life 😉
xx, A
