How to Avoid the Temptation of Alcohol at Parties

Choosing to remain sober during festivities can be difficult when you are surrounded by partygoers who are enjoying alcohol. Whatever your reason for avoiding the temptation of alcohol at parties, know that it is something that can be achieved with dedication and planning.

Plenty of Reasons

Try to remember why, exactly, you are avoiding alcohol. If you have to work in the morning or have an important engagement, remind yourself that you will want to be clear headed and feeling well the next day. If you are simply trying to avoid a hangover, look around at people who have had too much to drink and think about what they’ll be facing tomorrow! If you are acting as the designated driver, remember how important it is to be sober — you do not want a DUI charge, and you also do not want to let people down if they are expecting a ride from you. There are many reasons to not drink, even at a party.

Enlist Support

When you arrive at the party feel free to tell the host that you are not drinking. He or she should be able to provide you with alcohol free drinks that still taste delicious. Enjoy buzz-free drinks and treat yourself to snacks in order to keep your mind off of the bar options.

If you are worried about peer pressure, do not announce to the whole party that you are avoiding alcohol. Simply carry around a non-alcoholic drink, participate in conversations, and act normally. Most people won’t even realize you aren’t drinking!

Be Proud and Stand Your Ground

Practice what you will say if you are offered alcohol. Some people may not take no for an answer, so be ready to stand your ground. If you’re honest and serious, you can get through to the pushy people, too.

It may not be easy, but the benefits of staying sober will be yours if you stay focused and have fun!