Plan a Sober Holiday Season
Last year, when Lauren Haydel began her first sober holiday season, she wondered how difficult it would be to avoid alcohol at family parties and celebrations with friends. She owns a boutique, Fleurty Girl, in New Orleans’ French Quarter, a neighborhood synonymous with drinking.
Tips for Staying Sober During the Holidays
If you are planning to stay sober this holiday season, here are some tips from sober coaches, sober bar managers, and happily sober people:
Plan Drink Options in Advance of Social Events
"Having something in your hand just ups your comfort level, because you feel like you’re socializing with this thing in your hand, instead of standing there with your hands at your side," says Abby Ehmann, who owns Hekate Cafe and Elixir Lounge, a sober bar on New York City’s Lower East Side.
- Choose your alcohol-free options in advance
- Sample non-alcoholic wines and beers
- Mix up your own mocktail recipes in advance
- Treat your non-alcoholic drinks like they’re really special
- Consider putting a sugar rim on your glasses or using luster dust on top
Make Social Plans that Don’t Focus on Drinking
This year, plan to gather somewhere other than a bar. It’s the perfect season "to have some lovely hot chocolates, take them outdoors and go ice skating," says Kate Baily, a women’s health coach in the U.K. and host of the podcast Love Sober.
- Give yourself permission to skip events that are all about drinking
- Opt for activities that don’t involve drinking
- Plan activities that you enjoy, like going for a walk or having a picnic
Know Your Sober Social Window
Even if it’s your habit to stay out late, "you don’t have to do what you’ve always done at this particular Christmas party," Haydel says. Drop in for the first hour, then allow yourself to leave when you wish.
- Don’t feel pressured to stay out late if you’re not comfortable
- Take breaks and connect with sober support
- Slip out without explanation if needed
Take Breaks and Connect with Sober Support
If you’re feeling stressed during a holiday gathering, "take a time out," Jeboult says. Escape to the bathroom, step outside for a minute, or go for a walk.
- Take breaks and rest
- Connect with sober support, such as an AA sponsor or sober friends
- Join online sober groups or follow sober social media accounts
Plan Your Transportation
Map out multiple transportation options, rather than relying on one person for a ride home from a party. You’ll have less stress and feel less motivated to temper stress with alcohol if you have the freedom to leave when you wish.
View Being Sober as a Holiday Gift to Yourself
During her first sober holiday season last year, Haydel reveled in meaningful conversations and the joy of waking up feeling good each morning with clear memories of the night before.
- Focus on enjoying your time and the company of others
- Take your time getting dressed and visualize yourself having a great time
- Plan a reward for the next day, such as a breakfast date or a morning walk
Conclusion
Staying sober during the holiday season can be challenging, but with the right mindset and preparation, it can also be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. By planning ahead, taking breaks, and connecting with sober support, you can make the most of the holiday season and set yourself up for success in the new year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I deal with pressure to drink from others?
A: Be honest and open with your friends and family about your decision to stay sober. They may be more supportive than you think.
Q: What if I slip up and have a drink?
A: Don’t beat yourself up over it. Instead, acknowledge your mistake and get back on track. Remember that it’s okay to make mistakes and that you’re doing the best you can.
Q: How do I stay motivated to stay sober during the holidays?
A: Focus on the benefits of staying sober, such as feeling more energized and clear-headed. Remind yourself of your goals and why you decided to stay sober in the first place.
