Building a Sober-Friendly Workplace: Insights from DeAnn Knighton
Episode Overview
Deanne shares her personal challenges and experiences as a sober individual in the workplace. She highlights the misconceptions and stigma associated with not drinking at work events. Deanne advocates for creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals who choose not to drink. Listeners are invited to contribute to the conversation and share their perspectives on building a sober positive workplace. The episode emphasises the importance of understanding, empathy, and support for non-drinkers in professional settings.
First, I came in here tonight fully prepared for judgment and questions. But if you ask me what I would like and I say a Diet Coke and you don't respond with surprise, then you've just handed me the gift of normalization. You've also demonstrated to those around you that there's nothing weird about that choice. With this small shift, you have put me at ease and likely changed the course of the night for me.
Imagine attending a work event where everyone is clinking glasses, but you’re holding a soda. How do you feel? In this episode of 'Show Up and Stay', DeAnn Knighton dives into her own experiences of navigating the workplace as a sober individual. From the awkwardness of happy hours to the silent assumptions colleagues make, DeAnn paints a vivid picture of what it’s like to stay sober in a culture that often revolves around alcohol.
This episode kicks off a series dedicated to creating 'sober positive workplaces', and it starts with the question: What do we wish our colleagues knew about our sobriety? DeAnn doesn’t shy away from sharing her personal stories, including the sometimes sloppy transition to sobriety and the humorous moments that come with it. She touches on how younger generations might be shifting away from heavy drinking, offering a glimmer of hope for more inclusive social norms at work.
A heartfelt letter from 'the sober one at happy hour' is read aloud, providing an honest look into the thoughts and feelings of someone who chooses not to drink. Listeners are encouraged to join the conversation by sharing their own experiences and what they wish their colleagues understood about sobriety. Whether you’re sober, considering sobriety, or simply want to support a more inclusive work environment, this episode is packed with relatable anecdotes and practical advice.
Tune in to learn how we can all contribute to a more understanding and supportive workplace culture.