Staying Sober During the Holidays One Mocktail at a Time
Dress: Amazon (out of stock but similar here and here) // Boots: Target // Purse: House of Want
Earrings: Kendra Scott // Lipstick: Younique in ‘Powerful’
This is now my third Christmas in a row of being sober. I can tell you that although my twenty something self would have looked at me like I had two heads if I had told her she would be completely sober through a pandemic and into the year following a global shutdown. Yes, this person right here used to love her wine and champagne. Especially on a holiday. A few years ago I made the decision to stop drinking in hopes that my life would find purpose and I would stop having panic attacks. Both happened and here we are ordering mocktails instead of martinis. So little is really talked about in the drinking world outside of being either a drinker or someone who doesn’t. I love going to a good party. I also love fancy drinks. What I don’t love is alcohol. It just doesn’t agree with my anxiety and I feel like a happier human being without it. If you are also in the same boat and alcohol just doesn’t do it for you right now I’m here to tell you a few ways I still have fun without having a hangover.
Ask for a Beautiful Mocktail
I still travel, go to nice restaurants and even sit at the bar if I’m alone. I let the bartender know I’d like to have a mocktail and then share if I’m looking for something tangy or sweet. Most bartenders can do a variety of drinks with ginger beer. Moe at the Texican Court whipped me up a delicious non-alcoholic cranberry and ginger beer mocktail. I ask for a pretty drink and usually, the bartender comes through. Other favorites have been a sparkling blueberry lemonade, a virgin Moscow mule, and when in doubt a sparkling soda with lime is always in stock.
Have an Exit Strategy
I love going to a beautiful atmosphere, but when I’m with a crowd or a group of people who are drinking, I always have an exit strategy. Usually, after the second round I politely leave so I do not have to deal with them intoxicated while I’m stone sober. I came to enjoy their company and the experience. When I no longer want to stay, I politely excuse myself. It’s super easy and my friends respect my boundaries. There was a time where I went to very few social gatherings but now, I feel comfortable and just go for a little while.
Give Yourself New Experiences
I don’t skip on experiences. Now that I don’t drink, I have a ton more free time I didn’t realize existed. I get up earlier, work out almost daily, travels all over the place, and usually wear a cute outfit. This year alone I’ve been to Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. I go to the beach, hike mountains and eat at nice restaurants. The money I would have spent in the past now goes to fund my travel lifestyle. I wouldn’t trade any of it for the world. You’ll find me over NYE sipping on a mocktail beachside living my best life. If you are looking to do the same I challenge you to order a mocktail of your own and then tag me in it on NYE!! Cheers to 2022!
