Ep. 46 Achieving a Stress-Free, Sober Thanksgiving: Insights and Strategies

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Navigate Your First Alcohol-Free Holiday with Confidence and Joy

Thanksgiving often conjures images of hearty feasts, laughter, family gatherings, and, let's admit it, flowing glasses of wine. For many, the idea of celebrating Thanksgiving without alcohol might seem daunting or even impossible. However, in Episode 46 of the "Feel Lit Alcohol Free Podcast," coaches Ruby Williams and Susan Larkin explore the empowering benefits of an alcohol-free Thanksgiving and provide practical strategies to navigate the holiday season sober.

The Importance of a Prepared Statement

One of the key aspects discussed by Coach Ruby is the significance of having a prepared statement or position when choosing not to drink during social events. Having a succinct declaration ready can aid in gracefully navigating social pressures to consume alcohol.

A simple statement like "I'm focusing on my health and enjoying the holiday without drinks this year," can provide clarity and set boundaries. Coach Ruby suggests that this approach fosters a more assured mindset and enables individuals to enjoy their holidays without the overshadowing presence of alcohol.

Planning for Your First Alcohol-Free Thanksgiving

Preparing for 'firsts,' such as your first alcohol-free Thanksgiving, involves several steps. Both Ruby and Susan emphasize preplanning, which includes making firm decisions and having alternative drink options ready, like mocktails or alcohol-free wine.

Coach Susan advises having a plan for responding to questions about not drinking. Preordering non-alcoholic drinks and having them set at your hosts' homes, as she does, can further ease this transition. The coaches collectively emphasize that the gradual easing into an alcohol-free lifestyle can become easier and more rewarding over time.

Handling Social Pressures and Family Dynamics

Dealing with social pressure is another important topic covered in the episode. Coach Susan shares her method of using succinct statements followed by quickly changing the topic. This deflects unnecessary pressure and redirects the conversation to more meaningful topics.

Acceptance in social circles may take time. As both coaches note, their families have gradually come to accept and even support their choice to remain alcohol-free during holidays, although initial discomfort was to be expected. Ruby shares pride in maintaining an alcohol-free environment for five years and notes how her family tradition, even with a background in winemaking, has positively shifted.

Emphasizing Alcohol-Free Joys

Reduced anxiety, a stronger sense of self, and more engaging interactions are some of the many benefits highlighted by both coaches when looking at an alcohol-free lifestyle. Coach Ruby discusses the joy of focusing on activities like playing games with kids or cooking and connecting with family, rather than drinking.

Implementing visualization techniques—envisioning a joyful, sobriety-filled holiday—can boost confidence and reinforce commitment to an alcohol-free celebration.

Strategies and Coping Mechanisms

Ruby and Susan also delve into the practical side of maintaining sobriety during the holiday season. Coach Ruby advises having a getaway plan if you start feeling uncomfortable and discusses the importance of setting personal boundaries. Strategy can also include micro-decisions, preplanning rewards post-events, or substituting former rituals with alternative practices like mocktail-making.

Coach Susan offers crucial tips for hosts, such as taking breaks to walk or using techniques like tapping to handle stress. Recognizing subconscious thoughts that might drive one back to old habits is essential. Preplanning activities, locking oneself in a room to reset, or rehearsing alternative responses to stress can significantly bolster one's alcohol-free resolve.

Creating New Holiday Traditions

A holiday can invoke stress, especially when one clings to past alcohol-related traditions. Coach Ruby encourages finding joy in new, sober traditions. Movie marathons, karaoke nights, or simply engaging in meaningful conversations can redefine what it means to celebrate.

Coach Susan shares her tradition of watching the Thanksgiving Day Macy's Parade as a cherished alcohol-free activity. Changing the aesthetic of your table—replacing wine glasses with elegant glasses of sparkling water—can also ease this transition and make non-alcoholic beverages seem inviting and beautiful.

In Conclusion

Ruby and Susan wish their listeners a joyous, gratitude-filled Thanksgiving, encouraging them to fully immerse in alcohol-free joy. This special Thanksgiving edition of the podcast is a testament to celebrating with love, presence, and sobriety, turning the daunting into the delightful, one alcohol-free event at a time. 🌟
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Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching
https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/

Follow Coach Ruby: @rubywilliamscoaching