The holidays are all about indulging. Too often the indulging we are referring to involves too much food, too many drinks and in some circles a variety of other substances. This year change the norm and indulge in your friends, family, time off from work and relaxation.
As a recovering addict make a plan now to commit to your sobriety all the way into 2015. Here are a few tips we’ve found helpful for staying sober during the holidays:
1. Ask Your Family And Friends To Be Supportive
If you are attending a party where you know the host well, ask him or her to offer a few fun non-alcoholic cocktails. You can find so many inventive and delicious drinks online that don’t include a bit of alcohol. Chances are you will not be the only one enjoying those drinks!
If you are not close with the host of an event, bring a bottle of water or sparkling juice. Also, bring a friend. Keep someone with you that fully supports your sobriety and is happy to stay sober with you throughout the duration of the event.
2. Know Your Triggers and Leave When You Feel Tempted
Certain feelings may be your trigger; boredom, lonliness, stress or anger. Know what causes you to crave your past addiction and do not feel bad walking away. There is nothing wrong with an early and graceful departure if temptation is setting in.
3. Have A Party Of Your Own
Start a new tradition! Invite friends over that know about and support your recovery or acquaintances in a similar AA or NA program as you. The default get together around the holidays is to sit around eating and drinking. It doesn’t have to be that way. Research other activities around you – holiday concerts, ice skating, sledding, bowling, movies or museums.
4. If You’re Traveling, Go To Meetings Wherever You Are
Think ahead and find meeting well before you start your travel. This will give you the extra boost of support you will most likely need and a good excuse to escape from family or friends they start to get on your nerves.
5. Remind Yourself How Far You’ve Come
Tell yourself every morning how great it feels to be sober and how far you’ve come. One drink or one high is not worth potentially starting that journey to recovery all over again. You have the strength inside you to be sober, remind yourself of that.