Surviving the Holidays Sober: 3 Tips to Keep Your Peace
Episode Overview
Handle difficult relatives by either walking away or calmly speaking your truth. Inform your family ahead of time that you won't be drinking to avoid awkward moments. Have an exit strategy in case gatherings become overwhelming. Prioritise your mental health and well-being over others' opinions. Acknowledge and appreciate your courage in living a sober life.
"If you don't react, you are not playing their game and you get to keep your peace"
Feeling anxious about your first sober holiday season? You're not alone. In this episode of The One Day At A Time Recovery Podcast, Arlina Allen shares three practical tips to help you navigate family gatherings without reaching for a drink. Whether it's dealing with difficult relatives, setting boundaries, or having an exit strategy, Arlina's advice is both relatable and actionable. She starts by addressing the challenge of handling people who push your buttons.
Instead of engaging in arguments, Arlina suggests either walking away or calmly speaking your truth using 'I' statements. This way, you maintain your peace without escalating conflicts. Next, she emphasises the importance of informing your family ahead of time that you won't be drinking. This can prevent awkward moments and reduce the temptation to give in to peer pressure. Finally, Arlina advises having a solid exit plan. If things get too overwhelming, don't hesitate to leave.
Your well-being is more important than others' opinions. Arlina's compassionate and humorous approach makes this episode a must-listen for anyone dreading the holidays while newly sober. She reminds us that it's okay to prioritise our own mental health and offers encouragement to stay strong during these challenging times. So, if you're looking for some heartfelt guidance and a few laughs along the way, this episode is for you.