Affirmations to Normalize Not Drinking During the Holidays

I’m having a lot of conversations with Accountable Members in which they share their apprehension around explaining why they aren't drinking this holiday season.  I hope the following affirmations and reasons that I've found helpful, and have shared with our members, are helpful to you as well:

1. I don’t want to drink and its weird that you are pressing.

2. I don't drink for health reasons.

3. There was a season in my life when I would and I am no longer in that season.

4. It is becoming more and more uncouth to speak of alcohol enthusiasm- so many people are in recovery.

5. Ownership of one’s abstinence shows self control and maturity both are positive character traits.

6. As adults, it is common to either be driving or have an obligation later that would make it irresponsible to drink.

7. If you're comfortable and confident, command of your personal recovery story can be a welcome addition to any conversation.

8. No one cares.

9. I am an adult and a sum of my experiences thus far in life. I don’t drink. It’s not good for me.

10. I bartended for 10 years.  I realize that Pinot Noir is the greatest invention since the wheel- and celebrate other’s drinks all the time.  I just don’t partake. 

In the event I feel bothered, I can always leave. In addition, finding something helpful to do for someone else, and exercise are always great ways to flip a sour mood!