What Will People Think?

This is the question that popped into my head when I started seriously contemplating quitting drinking. What will they say about me? Will they think I'm an alcoholic? Will they think I'm not fun anymore? What do I say when they ask why I'm not drinking? If you're contemplating quitting drinking, or taking a break and wondering “What will people think?” - Here are my thoughts ⬇

You're the one making the good choice

Not drinking instead of drinking is ALWAYS a good choice. No matter your situation, your relationship with alcohol, or your values. Alcohol hurts your brain, hurts your body, and often makes you say stupid things. Stand firm in your choice and be proud of it.

“You're not an alcoholic, are you?” is a silly question to be asked because you're not drinking booze at a party, and anyone who does is out of line. Now, I was asked this question at a party early on and was caught off guard. It's a good idea to have an answer prepared ahead of time. It could be: “I'm taking the month off" or, as Melissa Urban would say, “I'm not drinking right now”, or, “I'm seeing what not drinking feels like“, or "I have to wake up early tomorrow”, or “Why do you care???”. And remember, when people ask you about your drinking, it usually has to do with their drinking.

No one needs to know what's in your glass. You don't need to have an NA beer in your hand or advertise the fact that you're drinking something other than alcohol. If you want to, that's great! But if you don't, pour whatever you're drinking into a glass, pop in a lime, and get on with your night. It's probably going to be on your mind but, believe me, most people don't care what's in your glass. If they do, see above ⬆.