Sobriety Doesn't Have to Kill Your Social Life
From friendships to romance, sobriety offers new opportunity.
I’ve spoken a few times about how my friend Ed Latimore was both inspired, and also helped me get sober and stick with it by being a resource along the way.
For anyone struggling with the social aspect of sobriety, he’s written a great free guide called “How to Socialize and Date Sober.” and it’s one of the best reads on the subject, not just because of how frequently the topic is brought up, but also because of the fact that it’s being shared by someone who has lived the experience.
Long-time readers know that these aren’t theories I share with you here when talking about sobriety, and with Ed’s piece, you get that same lived advice.
I recommend the piece from Ed above for one major reason:
If you don’t know how to have fun without alcohol, you’re going to be way more likely to relapse and fall back to your old ways. For many who’ve been drinking for a long period of time, you only know how to socialize without booze.
That fear alone keeps many from attempting sobriety, never mind seeking to sustain it; the fear of “once that crutch is gone,” you’re going to feel lost and isolated, but what’s missed is a gameplan to alleviate the fear, and that’s what Ed focused on.
Another big area that people struggle with is trying to date without the assistance of alcohol. “How can I meet men/women if I can’t loosen up or connect over a drink?”; again, this fear of not being able to continue to connect or make a connection in the first place will keep people addicted and consuming alcohol, thinking the continued risk is worth the potential reward…
This social acceptance can be even tougher, as so many people are brought up to believe that meeting for drinks is an integral part of what modern dating has become.
I enjoyed reading the “Sober Socializing & Dating” E-Book. It was quick, a nice reminder for myself, and something I think will be beneficial to those who read my work due to the sober message and articles; with that, I never want to be the gatekeeper to anything that could help you get on the path yourself.
The E-Book shows you how to navigate this potential landmine-filled decision by giving you some tips on handling yourself on a date or in social situations without drinking.
It also gets you thinking about the benefits that come with this style of getting to know someone without alcohol always being in the background.
For those who are still going to drink, I still recommend the piece of work as it can give you ideas on how to date/socialize without relying on the cliche “meeting up for drinks” and get you doing something new instead.
LINK TO E-BOOK: Get How to Socialize and Date Sober here.
- Zac Small