October felt like it flew by this year, which means that Sober October is almost drawing to a close! Sober October is a great time to reassess drinking patterns, explore alcohol-free options, or just get a sense of how a zero-proof life feels for you. But what happens next? If you’re someone who took comfort in the structure of Sober October, it can be daunting to try and figure out how the habits you tried out this month might play out for the rest of the year, especially with the holiday season coming up.
The holidays should be a time for celebration and togetherness, but that’s not always the case. For people reconsidering their relationship with alcohol, these next few months can also be incredibly stressful. There’s an unspoken expectation to enjoy a cocktail during Thanksgiving dinner or to raise a glass of champagne on New Year’s Eve. Even when you feel confident in your choice to abstain, it can be awkward to be the only person at a party not having a drink, and that feeling can really suck all the fun out of a celebration.
So, how can we keep that Sober October energy going even as the expectations for social drinking ramp up?
The key is to know your limits. If you got through Sober October and decided that you’re totally happy with your relationship with alcohol, that’s great! If you decided you want to cut back drinking on weeknights, or try out another month of sobriety, that’s also great! It’s all about assessing what’s best for you, and setting realistic goals.
Of course, the best way to navigate any difficult situation is by making sure you walk into it prepared. Showing up to a gathering with a non-alcoholic beverage is a great way to ease some of that awkwardness, and maybe even encourage other people to cut back for the night. With so many NA options on the market now, you’re sure to find something to suit the occasion, whether you’re looking for casual beers, or something festive and bubbly.
Plus, there’s always the option to put your hosting skills to the test and mix up your own mocktails. Our blog is full of zero-proof cocktail recipes perfect for entertaining, or you could keep an eye out for our soon-to-launch “Home for the Holidays” pack, which will be full of ingredients & recipes to ensure that everyone at the table has something to enjoy.
