The first Christmas I spent sober was complicated and lonely. I felt like something essential was missing, as I had always associated the holidays with Champagne toasts and gatherings centred around drinking. Things began to shift when I adopted healthier habits and explored new hobbies. I surrounded myself with like-minded people and integrated more self-reflection into my day-to-day routine.
Whether you’re newly alcohol-free or looking to moderate your alcohol consumption, the holiday season can cause feelings like stress, loneliness and nostalgia, often caused by increased social and family expectations. With the right planning and tools, the festive season can be a chance to create new memories and traditions that reflect who you have become, who you want to be and what you desire for yourself.
Here are some tips to prepare you for the upcoming holiday season:
Set an Intention & Remember Your “Why”
Remembering your “why” can help you stay motivated by grounding you in your purpose. This can be especially helpful when you’re feeling triggered to drink. Your “why” could be health-related (like better sleep or not being hungover tomorrow), or rooted in something more personal, like getting to know your true self outside of alcohol. Your reasons may change from day to day. Circling back to these intentions can be a powerful reinforcement!
Say No
While “setting boundaries” has become a trendy buzzword, there is validity to picking and choosing what seasonal festivities you will participate in. It may feel like you need to say “yes” to every event invitation, but it is okay to choose which events to attend and which events to skip, especially those events where you know the temptation to drink will be high.
Declining invitations can feel like you are pushing people away or being “difficult”, however, it is important to show yourself the same love and care you give others.
Bring Your Own Drink
Depending on where you are heading, the alcohol-free options may be limited. Bringing your own drink eliminates the uncertainty of whether there will be suitable options at the event.
Having a drink in your hand can also ease social anxiety (it’s nice to sip on something!) and make you feel more included. I like to stash a few ready-to-drink cans in my purse for an easy single-serve option. If I know other non-drinkers will be at the party, I’ll bring a bottle of non-alcoholic wine to share.
Have an Exit Plan
Go into your event with an exit plan. Whether you use it or not, it’s reassuring to know you have a way out if you need it. One of the many gifts of an alcohol-free lifestyle is being able to drive to and from events. Enjoy your drive home, safe and sober (and a hangover-free day tomorrow)!
Build in Activities That Don’t Involve Alcohol
Many of us have extra time off over the holidays and inviting sobriety into your life opens even more free time to explore new hobbies.
When I first got sober, I became a professional hobby hopper. I dabbled in jewellery making, worked on puzzles, practiced yoga, baked bread from scratch (mostly without success), used adult colouring books, and rekindled my love of reading. While not all of these hobbies stuck long-term, there are ones that have become part of my toolkit for keeping my mind and body occupied during times that would have otherwise been spent drinking.
Connect With Like-Minded People
Removing alcohol during the holidays can feel isolating, especially for those who are new to not drinking. Connecting with like-minded people creates a sense of belonging and can be a safe haven during times of loneliness. Consider planning outings and activities that don’t involve drinking. Lately, I have been enjoying Othership Socials as an alternative to a night out, which offers hot & cold therapy in an energizing sober space.
It’s also important to recognize when you need to reach out for help. Connecting with your community or a therapist can help reinforce your decision not to drink. There are many sober spaces online and in-person that can provide support when you need it most. Click here for a list of resources in Canada.
Remember… You’re Not Alone
Staying sober during the holidays may feel challenging at times but it also poses an opportunity to build strength and resilience while reconnecting with yourself. This time of year is about joy, love and connection, which can all be embraced without alcohol. Living an alcohol-free life is one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself and those you love.
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By: Emily Thompson
Emily has been sober for 5 years and works in children's mental health. As the Social Media Manager for Clearsips, Emily is passionate about building supportive sober communities and staying active in recovery spaces.