How to Stay Sober During a Christmas Party

There are many reasons not to drink at a Christmas party. You may need to avoid alcohol because you are driving, because you are a recovering alcoholic or because you are going somewhere after the party and you need to be clear-minded. There is also a chance that you want to have a drink or two but want to avoid getting drunk and losing control. In any case, there are some things you can do to stay sober.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Focus on the people, not the table or the open bar. Walk around, strike conversations and enjoy the music or the atmosphere. The more involved you are with your surroundings, the less chances you will stick around the drinks and lose count of how many you have had. If you are shy and know in advance you will be surrounded by strangers at the party, ask if you can bring a friend or family member along to help you cope with the environment.

2. Get a non-alcoholic drink as soon as you walk into the place. A glass of non-alcoholic beer or champagne or even soda or punch will give you the feeling of being part of the celebration without actually having to drink. Keep the glass in your hand and make sure is always full, so you won’t be tempted to take something else.

3. Have something to eat. It’s easier to avoid drinking if your stomach is full. If you are just trying to avoid having alcohol in excess but are OK with just a couple of glasses, eating something will keep your blood stabilized and prevent you from getting drunk after just a glass or two of champagne.

4. Have a glass of sparkling water or soda in between drinks. Alcohol dehydrates, which will make you thirsty and in turn makes you drink even more. By alternating drinks, you keep your blood alcohol under control and your instincts awake.

Tips & Warnings

• You don’t need to excuse yourself for your decision to stay sober during a party. If people ask why you’re not drinking, you can use a typical excuse, such as that you need to drive or that you’re not feeling well, or simply tell them you just don’t want to and hope they will accept that and back away.
• If the party’s focus is on alcohol, such as in the case of a cocktail party or a wine tasting, you may be better off opting out of it. This is especially important if you are recovering from an alcohol addiction and are not sure you can deal with the pressure or the temptation.

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