How to tell people you're taking a break from alcohol?

Why was it so weird to announce that I was taking a break from alcohol?

Over 2 years ago now, I made the decision to do just that.

There are ways to do this, but not feeling uncomfortable doing it is another thing all together, at least that was the case for me.

I was a wee bit nervous about letting others know, but why? I chuckle about it now, but it was a thing at first.

An obvious reason I think, is fear of judgment.

I drank red wine daily, every evening for years and years.

So naturally everyone in my orbit knew that about me. I remember wondering.......

Will I be judged or criticized by others?

Will I be viewed as boring, morally superior or uptight now?

Of course no one did, as far as I know, but even if they had, I realize that it says more about their own internal dialog, than about what I'm doing.

And then, there are social norms and expectations?

The pressure to fit in and avoid standing out.

How will I loosen up to feel relaxed and more comfortable without a lubricant?

What if my circle of friends or family feel judged by me, and simply not understanding why I would choose to take a break and not have wine?

Would there be a lack of understanding?

Would they think I have a problem? , hit rock bottom? a DUI.? on and on.

The answer to those questions for me is no, but clearly I knew I was drinking way more than was healthy for me,

I wasn't feeling my best and my creativity and energy where hindered.

Here are somethings to consider:

If you are drinking more than you would like to be, there is something beautiful in questioning that behavior. There really is.

But first, if you are beating yourself up for it, that isn't helpful at all.

We think that if we get mad enough, then change will eventually happen. But that is the worst thing we can do because change in patterns and behavior comes from self compassion, and when we love ourselves.

When you decide you want to experiment and are ready for a break you can work with someone who has been through it.

You can receive one on one support, and/or find a group of like minded people.

Here is an exercise for you... practice saying these sentences.

(These all ended up to be true statements for me!)

I'm not drinking right now because......

I'm taking a break for a health cleanse

I realized I'm happier not drinking

I feel better when I'm not drinking

I look better when I'm not drinking

I'm breaking up with booze

Leaning into discomfort makes us stronger and gives us confidence.

For me I love to say, "It started out an experiment and ended up a lifestyle."

"We can't be afraid of change.

You may feel very secure in the pond that you are in,

but if you never venture out of it,

you will never know that there is such a thing as an ocean, a sea."

C. Joybell

If you would like more information around sober curiosity and a lifestyle supporting one, you can contact me, and learn more

LEARN MORE

Thank you for reading

with love and wonder,

Rebecca