How to Party Sober

I’ve done a sober month for the past few years, and incorrectly, society makes us think we’re less fun when choosing not to imbibe. I like to prove the haters wrong, and fuel myself with caffeine and high vibes to enjoy the party, and fully let loose on the dance floor. Below, I share my tips on how to socialize with people who are drinking/doing drugs when you’re not. Prior preparation prevents poor performance (!!), so even if you’re going sober just for a night, arm yourself with this guide to enjoy yourself to the max.

I promise, you will feel a sense of power and freedom unlike any other when you say no to drugs, and yes to staying strong in your resolve.

Tips for Partying Sober

1. Start where you’re at

   1. If you’re new to this sober life, be realistic and manage your expectations. Bottle service with your friends at a club might not be a great idea for your first sober night out, instead, try a movie night in or dinner at a cozy restaurant.

   2. Same goes for dating, don’t say yes to a first date of drinks if you’ve never dated sober. Try a chill brunch or sushi lunch instead.

2. Become aware of your emotions

   1. Alcohol and drugs can mask our feelings, so getting ready to party sober might bring up some unexpected emotions. Take a moment to pause before going out, letting yourself feel all the feels, then blow yourself a hot girl kiss as you walk out the door to your fav pump-up song.

3. Tell a friend

   1. This is two-fold, first, some people might be uncomfortable around us sober. Although this isn’t our problem, I like to give friends a heads-up so I can avoid people who won’t support my vibe.

   2. You’re also going to want someone on your team when you’re dodging shots. Let someone who loves you know, so you can lean on them if it gets too draining explaining to everyone why you’re not drinking.

4. Know your why

   1. Tuning into the reason you’re committing to this dry night out will support you in sticking to your word. Take a little pause before going out to lean into your why to give you strength later in the night.

   2. People will ask you why you aren’t drinking, and try to convince you to just take a shot. To this I just smile and say no thanks, if they press I let them know because I want to feel amazing the next day I’ll be passing on tequila.

5. Decompress and notice how you feel

   1. Energy is real, so once you get home take some time to unwind from the whirlwind, instead of just passing out in bed. I like to put my feet up the wall, which helps slow heart rate, relaxing the body and mind.

   2. By noticing how you feel (amazing, proud, confident, free), you’ll want to come back to this sober practice more frequently, or come up with tools to better support you next time.

6. Plan something fun for the next day

   1. Pat yourself on the back for staying true to yourself and your word! To celebrate waking up without a hangover, schedule a yoga class or breakfast with a friend to soak up the day. Last week I planned a cozy stroll to my fav cafe where my dream croissant was waiting for me.