How to Stay Sober on the Weekend
If you spent years viewing the weekend as a non-stop chance to party, it can be difficult to imagine staying sober on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. You may feel relatively confident in your sobriety during the week and the weekend rolls around and it may be another story entirely.
It is time to set yourself up for success. A proactive approach will have that real-life relaxation feeling so much better than the drug- or alcohol-induced version ever could.
Plan ahead. Boredom is a common trigger. Making plans for the weekend in advance will help you keep the structure and you will have something to look forward to. Regardless of what you choose to do, having a clear plan will also make it easier to gracefully decline any invitations that could put you in harm’s way.
Avoid triggering environments. In the early stages of recovery, the best way to set yourself up for success is to avoid temptation as much as possible. This means steering clear of bars, nightclubs, and rowdy house parties. Friends and family who have your best interests at heart will understand that you need to decline these types of social invitations. If you’re feeling pressured, it might be time to reconsider if you’re in a toxic relationship that is putting everything you’ve worked for at risk.
Always have an exit strategy. If you accept an invitation to an event, think about what you’ll do if your cravings start to get overwhelming. Attend with someone who understands that you might need to leave suddenly and who you trust to help you work through your cravings.
Keep your eye on the prize. Take the time to remind yourself why you’re booze-free and what you’re working towards. Thinking about how far you’ve already come and how your relationships have already improved will help you stay committed despite any unexpected obstacles you encounter.
Hold yourself accountable. Join like-minded women who feel and think the same way you do about their struggles and relationship with alcohol. With A Sober Girls Guide Group Coaching, you will have weekly homework to complete, exercises to use daily, and accountability. When these elements come together you will be living booze-free in no time. You will be too busy with a life you love, that you will never have to self-medicate again! Sign up here.
Sober Weekend Activities
Reach out to a loved one. Make plans to catch up with a friend or family member you haven’t seen in a while.
Visit a local coffee shop. Locally owned coffee shops often have poetry readings, live music, or other weekend events.
Browse a local farmer’s market. Buy fresh produce, then cook a delicious meal for a few friends.
Have a picnic. Enjoy your meal at a local park or try stargazing in your backyard.
Plan a movie night. You can meet with friends in person or host a virtual watch party.
Hit the gym. Exercise releases mood-boosting endorphins, and going to the gym provides an opportunity to meet new people.
Register for a class. Whether it’s arts and crafts, music lessons, a foreign language, or just a topic you’ve always been interested in, learning something new is a great way to cure boredom.
Volunteer Helping others boosts self-esteem and feelings of gratitude. Community non-profits of all types are continually in search of new volunteers.
Be a tourist in your own town. Check out all the local landmarks you’ve never seen before. Take plenty of pictures and treat yourself to a fun souvenir.
Pamper yourself. If your budget allows it, splurge on a professional massage. Try one of the many DIY spa treatments you’ll find online. (If you’re married or in a committed relationship, a couple’s pampering session can be a wonderful date night idea!)