Social Butterfly without the Buzz

In my experience, continuing to enjoy an active social life while living alcohol-free is very possible, but it involves making some mindset shifts and doing some planning ahead of social events.

Pre-decide to have fun.

Years ago, during a Dry January challenge, I sat miserably in a corner at a friend's party, sipping my Diet Coke and thinking about everything I was missing out on. Now I understand that our thoughts are powerful.

Setting an intention to have fun beforehand sets the tone for the whole experience. As Wayne Dyer says, “Our intention creates our reality.”

Instead of focusing on what you're missing, focus on the fun things you will experience—connecting with friends, the venue's atmosphere, the food, your outfit, and the music.

Find alcohol-free alternatives you enjoy that make you feel like you still fit in.

One of our biggest core needs, especially as women, is a sense of belonging. We don't want to stand out as the only non-drinker. Pre-deciding what you'll drink helps avoid the awkward "What would you like to drink?" question and boosts your confidence. Choose sparkling water in a cocktail or wine glass to look like you're drinking something special or enjoy alcohol-free alternatives that mimic alcoholic drinks.

The market of no and low-alcohol drinks is exploding with both large brands creating non-alcoholic versions of their most popular drinks, and new products emerging. The global market for non-alcoholic drinks was estimated to have been worth US$890 billion in 2022 and expected to grow to $1.7 trillion US by 2032. (https://the1a.org/segments/the-zero-proof-movement-goes-beyond-dry-january/).

If you are going to a social event at a home, bring along your favourite alcohol-free wine, 0% beer or zero-proof pre-mixed beverages to that you know you will have an option you enjoy. ⬇️ Download my guide of my favourite non-alcoholic drinks that don’t suck.

Focus on how you are going to feel tomorrow.

There comes a point in the evening when everyone else starts to feel giggly after a drink or two, and you might feel like you're missing that buzzed feeling. Remind yourself of your commitment and why you made this decision.

Think about how you'll feel at the end of the night and how you'll feel tomorrow—without a hangover, with energy, and a clear mind to be productive and enjoy the day.

Have an answer ready for the “Why aren’t you drinking?” question.

Most people assume that if you're not drinking, you're either pregnant, have a medical issue, or have a drinking problem. It hasn't yet been normalized to choose living alcohol-free to be healthier and feel better.

Decide on an answer that feels comfortable and natural for you, such as:

• “I’m taking a break from drinking to see how I feel.”

• “I’m on a health kick and cutting out booze for a while.”

• “I don’t drink anymore, but I’d love a [non-alcoholic drink].”

• “I’m driving tonight” or “I have an early morning, so I’m taking it easy tonight.”

Be okay with making a French exit.

You may feel done with socializing earlier than those drinking alcohol. Without the dehydrating effects of alcohol that makes you want to keep drinking you may be ready to stop drinking your non-alcoholic beverages earlier.

You might also start to become hyper aware of people showing signs of intoxication as you remain alert - slurring, finding things overly humorous, and repeating themselves. Instead of judging, use it as a reminder of why you're happy with your choice and make what’s referred to as a “French exit”, slipping out quietly without making a big deal of it.

When I started on my alcohol-free journey, there were far fewer people who were sober curious or alcohol-free. It's encouraging to see more people choosing to cut back or abstain from alcohol, not because they have a drinking problem or hit a rock-bottom moment, but because they want to feel and look their best.

While I can share all the advice in the world, the truth is you need to give yourself a chance to find out who you are without the alcohol and experience socializing alcohol-free to know that it is possible to enjoy yourself.