Alcohol is a huge aspect of the social scene in a number of places. Alcohol is frequently present at college parties, weddings, and simple get-togethers with friends. But what if you’re not a drinker?
Perhaps you’re in recovery, or perhaps you’re simply taking a break to see how you feel. In any case, you intend to stay alcohol-free for the duration of the evening.
Turning down booze might be difficult, especially if you’re among individuals who have seen you drink in the past.
Whether you’ve decided to get sober for good or simply have a night off from alcohol, these ideas can help you get through it.
Be Healthier
Your friends and relatives may be relentless in giving you a drink while you acclimatize to your new lifestyle. They’re not trying to be cruel or derail you; it’s simply that it hasn’t yet dawned on them that you’re serious. Furthermore, they may be unaware of the entire scope of your condition and are attempting to minimize what you are going through. Remember, these are the same individuals who may have enabled your habit, so it stands to reason that they are now having difficulty recognizing that there are issues.
Try Non-Alcoholic Drinks
If you’re meeting pals outside, you may bring sodas or other non-alcoholic beverages of your choosing. If you’re already carrying a drink, you’re less likely to be approached for one, which saves you from potentially embarrassing interactions.
Meanwhile, if you want to go out to a pub, several provide alcohol-free beers and ciders on tap. If you prefer, there are always options such as soda, juice, or water.
Be Ready to Provide Reasons Not to Drink
Of course, you may always explain why you don’t drink, but you shouldn’t feel forced to do so.
It’s not a bad idea to tell a white fib to get your buddies off your back. Or, perhaps it’s technically correct, but it’s not the reason you’re not drinking. In either case, it’s a straightforward way to decline beverages.
Here are a few possible explanations:
You have an early class or work shift in the morning, you’re still drunk from the night before, and you’re meeting your family for breakfast.
If you really want someone to stop asking you, tell them you’re taking an antibiotic or another prescription that doesn’t combine well with alcohol.
Aim for Honesty
Excuses may work temporarily. However, if you intend on not drinking for a long or if you’re among trustworthy pals, you should think about being honest.
Everyone’s relationship with alcohol is unique, and it’s okay to be open about your decision to abstain from it. Unlike making excuses, which may only work until the next time you go out with your pals, being truthful can keep your friends off your back in the long run.
Who knows, you could even discover that someone else is going through something similar.
Change the topics
We’ve all been in a circumstance where someone, whether a friend or a random stranger, approaches us drunkenly, begins chatting, and word vomit spills out.
If they see you aren’t drinking, they may inquire as to why. Even if they’re a buddy who knows you don’t drink, alcohol has a way of decreasing people’s inhibitions, so they may still inquire or probe for additional information.
If you don’t want to respond, especially to someone who is inebriated, you can shift the subject. For example, ask them about themselves, discuss the band or sports team on their T-shirt, or bring up a mutual buddy.
Bottom Line, Stand Up for Yourself
Ultimately, it’s up to you to remain outside the grip of alcohol addiction. Keep yourself in safe situations and associate with others who respect you.
