Countering social pressure

'Ah dude, one can't hurt, right?', 'Don't be so unsociable', 'Then you just won't drink tomorrow, will you?' Just a few examples of things people might say to you when you're not drinking. This is how you experience alcohol freedom and how to deal with social pressure.

Tip 1 Look at who says it

You usually experience social pressure with people who are just a little further away from you. Anyone who really knows you well will not quickly question a conscious choice you make. In addition, the 'criticasters' often secretly want to drink less themselves. But drinking together just feels better, because this justifies the choice to drink.

Tip 2 Don't get defensive

Well and that the neighbor seems to think you're a boring sock? So what that your aunt would rather toast with your brother? You don't have to explain to everyone why you don't drink alcohol (temporarily). The most important thing is that you understand why you made that choice.

Tip 3 You can't please everyone

If you do drink (too much) there are people who don't approve of this and if you don't drink there are people who think theirs. In other words, you can never please everyone. What matters is that you are happy with yourself and the choices you make.

Tip 4 Stay true to yourself

This tip is related to tip 3. If something doesn't feel right, don't do it. Something that applies to all of life actually. So if you don't want to drink, you don't drink. As long as you can look yourself in the eye, it's fine.