As dry January almost draws to a close I felt it was very fitting to write this.

Attitudes towards alcohol…

Throughout the month all I’ve heard (from those doing dry January) is moaning about how boring having no alcohol has been, what a struggle it is to socialise or go into pubs. (Because apparently going into a pub for a soft drink is obscene!)

Yes, these comments I’ve heard have mainly been from work colleagues, as I do feel there’s a strong culture in the workplace around alcohol. Especially if you work within sales or marketing like I do, then apparently it’s a given that you’re partial to a tipple or two.

It’s all part of the culture and how you’re a proper team member, isn’t it?!

Whilst these mutters are their opinion, which they’re totally entitled to, it almost throws a little shade to those who aren’t bothered about alcohol. Plus, with these comments there’s little thought about the impact it could have on those who live this lifestyle on a daily basis, or at least those who really limit their intake of alcohol.

Thoughts on those who are teetotal…

The opinions about having zero alcohol are negative, which makes those who have sober lifestyles feel as if they’re boring, or simply don’t fit in.

As someone who limits their intake of alcohol for reasons mentioned in my blog: can we be adult about alcohol, please – this has got my back up quite a bit.

I find it extremely difficult in the workplace to fit in, as someone who isn’t phased by alcohol and rarely drinks it. As conversations always seem to steer that way, especially after a long, boring meeting or a super stressful day you’re bound to hear your colleagues asking for a shot or a large one to get them through the day – and no, they don’t mean coffee.

Social events are predominantly focused around alcohol, which is why I struggle wanting to go and in most cases, I actually don’t attend.

Why would you spend your free time around people, in a situation that makes you feel uncomfortable, or has been planned VERY one-sided.

Living a sober lifestyle…

Those who live sober lifestyles may be fed up of justifying their reasons for being teetotal; they may feel somewhat awkward in conversations that always seem to steer towards alcohol in some capacity, and are tired of avoiding social events from fear of being deemed boring because they’re on the soft drinks all night.

I know this is how I tend to feel.

This feeling, it’s as if you’re being singled out because of a choice you’ve made to better your health and overall lifestyle, amongst other reasons.

Imagine someone shaming you for trying to be a BETTER person.

It doesn’t make sense, does it?

Luckily I don’t care too much about the stigma around sobriety. I’ll happily be the ‘last one to be picked’ for a team social or invited to a party, just because I’m not a drinker. At least I’m staying true to who I am then being a sheep following the crowd for fear of rejection!

But I do know that some people can struggle with this, and my advice to you would be…

Hold your head high, say your truth with your chest, and be comfortable enough in your own skin about limiting your alcohol consumption.

Don’t cave to the pressures or feel less worthy because you don’t follow what the majority are doing.

Trust me, this action actually holds more power than you realise; and I’m sure there are some people quietly looking at you in awe, wishing they could do the same.

Whilst you may feel singled out for being sober, there are others that will be your allies and will totally admire your actions.

Never feel a sense of shame for your sobriety; you should feel really proud and empowered!