As you know, a group of us are going alcohol-free for 30 days starting February 1st. There have been a variety of reactions to my plan ranging from a congratulatory hug to visible recoil. It is pretty interesting to see them and get a feel for other people’s relationship with alcohol.
But let’s not forget that drinking has a huge social component to it so here is how you can deal with your alcohol-free friend (whether her sobriety is temporary or permanent):
1. Do not talk her into having a drink.
2. Do not treat her like a social pariah or like she’s lost her mind.
3. Do not give her the “head tilt – I’m so sorry” look every time you see her.
4. Do not hide your alcohol from her or flaunt it in her face either.
5. Do not explain to her why you would not give up alcohol.
6. Do ask her how she’s feeling and provide encouragement.
7. Do continue to invite her to your parties and get-togethers.
8. Do treat her like nothing has changed.
9. Do buy her a juice or soda if she’s at a bar with you.
10. Join her. You might be surprised at what you will discover about yourself.
It’s not hard. It’s not weird. And you will help your friend accomplish something good. If you’re on Twitter, follow along and provide support with the hashtag #dry or #drinkstrike. You can also leave a comment here or on my Facebook Page.
Below is the list of intrepid individuals joining me in February:
1. My husband, Warren
2. My sister, Mary Jane
3. My friend, Joylette
4. Danny Stewart
5. Lisa Byrne
6. Shonali Burke
7. Vanessa French
8 . Michelle Nguyen
9. Krista
10. Jeff (aka) Malnurtured Snay
11. Danielle Ricks
It’s not too late to join us! February 1st is only TWO days away… Are you ready?
Yogitastic 
I never liked alcohol to begin with so I don’t drink. But for whatever reasons you all are doing this: Good luck! If anything I’ll join in all the same.
Thank you!! 🙂 Your support is much appreciated!
I’ve done it before, and for more than just 30 days. In fact, it was becoming a lifestyle.
Gad, I miserable. 🙂
Ha ha ha! I don’t foresee not drinking turning into my lifestyle. But I can foresee that it would lead to some serious cutting back. 🙂
I’m a week late, but I’m going to join you too. When I saw your original post, I meant to commit from day one but… Whatever, it doesn’t matter. I’m here now. And February, or what’s left of it, is my only chance for awhile since my birthday is in March and my 5 year wedding anniversary is in April. Hey! I’m just trying to keep it real for me. 😉
So glad you are joining us! And real is the only way to go… especially if success is what we’re trying to get to! WELCOME! And keep me up-to-date on how you’re doing! 🙂
How’s it going? You’re more than half-way!!
I KNOW! I’m so excited! 🙂 I’m sleeping better which is a wonderful side effect of being alcohol-free. I feel good. I feel alert. No one has gotten hurt. All good signs!
I’m thinking of making this an annual thing now. But I’ll make that decision when I’m over the bridge.
I started early. Doing my 30 days this month. Feel great!
Awesome! I was thinking of getting started early as well and adding to the 30 days. Being too sick to drink is really going to help with that. 🙂