Why Holiday Parties Are Just Like Daily Soaps (And How to Stay Sober Through Them)
The holiday season is here—office parties, family gatherings, and Christmas markets are filling up calendars. While these events can be joyful, they often come with challenges for anyone trying to stay sober. In today’s video (German, but you can watch it with subtitles until it’s translated), we’re diving into the dynamics of holiday gatherings and how they’re surprisingly similar to daily soaps.
So, if you’re worried about dealing with endless drink offers or explaining (again) why you’re not drinking, this post—and the video—are here to help.
1. When People Keep Asking Why You’re Not Drinking
You know the situation: You’re at a party, someone notices you’re not drinking, and suddenly it’s an interrogation. “Why aren’t you drinking?” “Come on, just one!”
It’s exhausting—and often, people cave just to stop the questioning.
But here’s a way to reframe it: Imagine someone asking you six times why your shoelaces are tied a certain way. At some point, you’d probably snap and say, “Why do you care so much about my shoelaces?”
The same applies to drinking. If someone keeps asking why you’re not drinking, it’s their issue, not yours. Flip the script and ask, “Why does it matter so much to you that I drink?” This often defuses the situation immediately.
2. The Awkward First Two Hours—And Why It Gets Better
Most parties start with people sizing each other up and trying to “warm up” socially. The first two hours can feel awkward, especially if you’re the only sober person in the room.
But here’s the good news: By hour two or three, most people are too busy drinking—or too tipsy—to care what you’re doing. In fact, this is often when the tide turns, and people start saying things like:
• “I wish I could do what you’re doing.”
• “Wow, you’re still fun even without drinking.”
Knowing that the initial discomfort is temporary can make it easier to push through.
3. Become the Observer—Like Watching a Daily Soap
Instead of focusing on feeling out of place, step back and observe what’s happening around you. Treat it like you’re watching a reality show:
• Who’s getting louder?
• Who’s repeating themselves?
• Who’s having the same argument they always have?
You might find it entertaining rather than stressful. And the best part? You’ll remember everything the next day!
4. Prepare Your Answers—And Make Them Strong
One of the best ways to handle drink offers is to have a prepared response. Something simple like:
• “I’m trying to be healthier right now.”
• “I’ve realized I feel better when I don’t drink.”
Avoid time-limited excuses like “I’m taking a 30-day break,” which might leave you scrambling for a new excuse later.
5. Flip the Perspective—You’re the Strong One
Finally, remember that choosing not to drink makes you stronger—not weaker. If someone pressures you to drink, ask yourself:
Who’s really uncomfortable here? Me, standing confidently in my decision? Or them, unable to enjoy the night without alcohol?
When you see it that way, the pressure tends to lose its power.
Final Thoughts—You’re Ready for the Season
Holiday parties don’t have to be a minefield. By preparing your mindset, staying observant, and remembering that others’ questions reflect their insecurities, you can navigate the season with confidence.
Don’t forget to check out the video for more insights—and remember, subtitles make it easy to follow along until the translation is available.
Let’s make this holiday season one to remember—for all the right reasons.
Tschüss! 🎄