Not drinking on weekends is really hard if you’re working on your sobriety or reducing grey area drinking. You know, those times when you go sober for weeks at a time, then binge out somewhere. Or when you start grabbing a bottle of wine on the way home more times in a week than you promised yourself.
I get it. If you’re like most of my clients who want support to stop drinking, the kids are (almost) gone, you’ve got more time than you know what to do with, our patience is thinner than a single strand of hair, hormones are going nuts, and a crisp glass of vino feels like the only thing that can ease the stress.
But let’s be honest, that glass of wine (or two, or three…) always makes everything harder the next day. You know it, but it keeps calling you back. In the case of the weekends, it’s for “fun” with friends or for relaxing. But is it actually?
When you’re on a good alcohol-free streak, the memories of the rough times with alcohol might fade into the background.
But let’s revisit them quickly to keep it sharp:
- Has alcohol ever made you cancel plans? Did you feel guilt or regret?
- When drinking, have you ever overshared or accidentally said something you wish you didn’t?
- Have hangovers ever made you late in the morning or made you skip a planned workout?
- After drinking, would you say you make the best dietary choices the next day that you feel good about?
- Does drinking help you feel sharp the next day with work or tasks you have to complete?
You know the answers, I just had to remind you that you know you feel better when you wake up from a sober night. Plus, it feels amazing to know you kept your promise to yourself. I’m here to help you feel good and support your healthy choices.
Here are some ways to “flip the script” on approaching drinking over the weekend:
It’s Not About Deprivation, It’s About Alcohol Liberation
Let’s ditch those “shoulds” and expectations about what a perfect weekend looks like. This is about crafting a weekend that feels good to you. Maybe that means:
- Waking up without that hangover feeling, with enough energy to actually enjoy time with your kids.
- Swapping the wine for something healthier, like a delicious green smoothie or sparkling water with fresh fruit. You’ll feel amazing!
- Being fully present for those special moments with your family, without that foggy feeling.
- Showing your kids that a healthy relationship with alcohol is possible, and that you’re strong enough to choose differently.
The Practical Steps to a Weekend Sober “Rebellion”
Okay, enough with the warm fuzzies. Let’s get real. Here are some practical tips for making those weekend moments amazing, without relying on alcohol:
- Plan for Success: Spontaneity is great, but sometimes we need a little structure. Make a loose plan for your weekend – a park outing in the morning, a family game night after dinner. It doesn’t have to be rigid, just a little framework to guide you.
- Stock Up on Healthy Alternatives: Keep your fridge stocked with delicious, non-alcoholic options. Sparkling water with fruit, fancy teas, or even a homemade mocktail. Treat yourself!
- Fight the Cravings: When that voice whispers, “Just one glass won’t hurt,” be ready with a powerful response. “I’m stronger than my cravings,” or “I choose to feel amazing tomorrow,” are good ones.
Beyond Just Surviving, Thriving in Your Sober Curiosity
This isn’t just about not drinking, it’s about discovering the amazing woman you are.
- Rediscover Your Passion: Remember those things you loved before life got so crazy? Pick up that paintbrush, dust off that old guitar, or finally take that Zumba class you’ve been thinking about.
- Connect with Your Tribe: Surround yourself with people who lift you up and support your journey. Your partner, your best friend, or even an online community of sober curious warriors. You don’t have to do this alone!
This Weekend, Choose Yourself, Choose Sober
Go ahead, mama. Take back your weekends. Rediscover your joy, your energy, and your amazing self. You’ve got this!