How to Have Fun Without Drinking
As you begin your sober journey, one of the questions you may ask yourself is how to have fun without drinking. While it may feel like many activities revolve around the consumption of alcohol, it doesn’t mean that you can no longer partake in some of the hobbies you enjoyed before. Plus, there are plenty of new possibilities awaiting you to explore in your new sober life.
If you or your loved one need a safe space to recover from addiction, contact Myrtle Beach Recovery to learn more about our short- and long-term recovery programs.
Fun Activities
As you transition into sober life, you’re encouraged to find new hobbies and activities you can enjoy without the consumption of alcohol. However, the decision to pursue a sober lifestyle doesn’t mean you have to give up all the activities you enjoyed before. Take a look at some new activities to try and how to manage those where alcohol may be present:
Attending a Party
Yes, it’s entirely possible to attend a party without giving in to the temptation of alcohol. There’s no need to deprive yourself of socializing with friends and dancing the night away. But you have to be smart and take some precautionary measures:
- Attend with a friend who is aware of your sobriety. You’ll feel more comfortable having someone you can stick with throughout the night, and it can help curb temptation.
- Know how to respond when asked about not drinking. It is entirely up to you who you want to disclose your sobriety to. Do not feel obligated to explain. If you’d prefer, you can say you are a designated driver. Or, to avoid the question entirely, consider holding a cup filled with your favorite non-alcoholic beverage.
- Enjoy yourself. Always remember that your sobriety and your happiness go hand-in-hand. Try to set anxiety aside and enjoy your time talking with friends, dancing, and playing games.
Going to Dinner with Friends
Grabbing dinner with friends is a great way to spend quality time together while enjoying a delicious meal. You can each rotate turns picking where to go, or you can even try out a new restaurant each week. Many restaurants have trivia nights, painting events, game nights, and more which can easily become a fun, weekly go-to at your favorite establishment! While your friends may order drinks, there’s no reason you have to. You’re there for the great food, conversation, and company.
Joining a Club or Class
Joining a club or signing up for a membership is a great way to find fun activities where alcohol likely won’t be present. Plus, clubs can provide you with a more structured schedule and hold you accountable for attending. Try something active like hiking, biking, or camping to help you stay healthy and strong throughout your sobriety. Or, consider signing up for a cooking club to learn how to make nutritious meals. Learning how to sustain a healthy diet can help in your recovery and teach you awesome new skills in the kitchen! Of course, the opportunities are endless from painting and reading to sports and more.
Consider Myrtle Beach Recovery
We hope you’ve acquired some new ideas and tips on how to have fun without drinking. However, if you’re struggling to maintain your sobriety, consider reaching out to Myrtle Beach Recovery. We offer short-term and long-term recovery programs, providing a safe place to work through the 12 Steps.
Contact us today to find out how we can help you on your path to sobriety.
