Today we’re diving into a topic that hits close to home for many of us: social drinking. Don’t worry, I’m not here to judge or preach; I’m all about creating a safe space for us to explore our experiences, share insights, and grow together. So, grab a cup of tea (or your beverage of choice), get cozy, and let’s chat about finding happiness outside of social drinking.

In my recent podcast episode with the incredible Guy Wills, we discussed the ins and outs of creating a fulfilling life without relying on alcohol. I’ve got to say, Guy had some great tips and insights, particularly for the guys for whom drinking plays a huge part in sport culture and finding where you fity in as a man.

First things first, let’s acknowledge that social drinking is a deeply ingrained part of our culture. From happy hours to boozy brunches, alcohol is often at the center of our social interactions. But what if there’s a way to cultivate meaningful connections and have a blast without the hangovers and regret? Trust me, it’s possible – and it’s pretty darn amazing!

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Jemaine, how can I possibly have fun without alcohol? Won’t my friends think I’m a total bore?” I hear you, and I get it. But here’s the thing, true friends will respect your choices and support you on your journey. And guess what? You’ll inspire others to rethink their relationship with alcohol too!

I’ve been socially sipping on soda for a few years now and honestly, when I let go of my own hangups about feeling awkward and the FOMO of not being on the same level as everyone, I realised, noone actually cares. I can have just as much fun as anyone else, and rather than chase the dragon into the early hours of the morning and face the hang-xiety as I question what came out of my mouth the night before, I instead rise early and take action on things that align with my goals and intention with absolute gratitude that in a weekend I can be social AND productive.

So, where to start. Guy shared some practical tips to help you navigate this new world of socializing without booze, and I’m excited to pass on the wisdom:

1. Get curious: Explore new activities, hobbies, and experiences. You might be surprised by what brings you joy when alcohol isn’t in the mix. Have you ever thought of surfing, hiking, writing, yoga, pottery, rock climbing or dancing?
2. Communicate with confidence: Be open and honest with your friends about your decision to cut back on alcohol. You might find that your decision gives them the permission to cut back to, and sooner rather than later you’ve traded boozey Saturday nights for a Sunday ritual of a morning beach walk and coffee catch-up.
3. Practice self-love and self-care: For many, drinking masks anxiety and insecurities, so it’s helpful to find healthy ways to reconnect with yourself. Take the time to really question the people and things within your life. Do they help you feel expansive and inspired, or stagnant and self-doubt. Spend some time in natrure to help you get clear on what you want in this life, and question if your current environment is supportive of that.
4. Embrace vulnerability: Be open to forming deeper connections and having meaningful conversations without the liquid courage. It might feel scary at first, but it’s incredibly rewarding. As you apply the first steps and start taking action on activities that feel more aligned for you, you might find that this season of life invites new connection with people who also align to the life you want to create for yourself.
5. Celebrate your wins: Recognize and celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Every step forward is a step in the right direction. Your first step might not be sobriety, but instead calling it a night by 10pm rather than 2am. No matter the size of the step, the feeling of staying true to your word feeds the motivation to keep going.

Guy also shared a a great piece of advice on reframing others’ opinions about drinking. He emphasized that it’s crucial to remember that their reactions aren’t about you – it’s about their own insecurities. To tackle this, Guy set himself a challenge: when not drinking, he focused on getting out of his own head and ensuring his friends had a good time. By doing so, he managed to shift the focus from his sobriety to the group’s enjoyment.

Remember, it’s all about finding what works for you and your unique journey. Take it one day at a time, and be gentle with yourself. You’ve got this!

I’d love to hear your thoughts on finding happiness outside of social drinking – let’s continue the conversation in the comments below! And if you enjoyed this post, be sure to check out my podcast, “It’s All Wellness” for more empowering insights and inspiration.

Sending you a huge virtual high-five. You’ve got this!

Connect with Guy

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