Surviving the Holidays Sober: Justin's Guide to Festive Freedom
We need to get rid of the thought process that when we quit drinking, we lost something. It actually is the exact opposite, we gained EVERYTHING!
Facing the holidays while staying sober can feel like a daunting task, but Justin Hammerback, host of the HammeredRecovery Podcast, is here to share his wisdom. In this episode, Justin kicks things off by reflecting on his family vacation to Anna Maria Island, comparing it to a similar trip he took before he quit drinking. Spoiler alert: this year was a whole lot better! He emphasizes that sobriety isn't about losing something; it's about gaining everything.
Justin dives into practical tips for enjoying holiday festivities without alcohol. He suggests driving your own car so you can leave whenever you need to, checking in with your sponsor before and after parties, and bringing your own non-alcoholic beverages just in case. He also advises not to shy away from discussing your concerns with family ahead of time, especially if you're worried the whole party might go dry on your behalf.
And remember, practice makes perfect—the more events you attend sober, the more comfortable you'll become. The holidays are also a fantastic time to practice Step 12 of recovery, which involves helping others. Justin's reflections and advice aim to inspire and support you on your journey, proving that it's entirely possible to have a joyful, safe holiday season without alcohol. So, if you're looking for encouragement and practical strategies to stay sober during the festive season, this episode is a must-listen.