Alcohol can be tempting to rely on when we want to feel more confident. But the truth is you CAN hold a conversation, you CAN belt out at karaoke, you CAN do all these things and more without the alcohol.

The only thing stopping you is the voice in your head putting you down! Here are our two-cents on learning to be comfortable as your own authentic self sans the alcohol.

 

 

1. Be nice to yourself!

When you’re uncomfortable in social situations, it's probably because a pessimistic, doubting voice in your head is telling you you need alcohol to deal with it. Becoming aware of these negative voices and making an effort to replace them with positive ones is the first step. 

If your mind is full of “I can’t talk to people without a bit of alcohol in me,” then you will NEVER be able to develop your confidence sober. 

When negative thoughts start to creep in, stop and try to acknowledge any possible strengths of your personality. Trust me, there are more than you think! Give yourself time and forgiveness to grow into your new positive self. And congratulate yourself every time you try!

Think it, manifest it, fake it till you make it. Whatever works for you. Just take the time and effort to be nice to yourself. 

 

 2. Practice Socializing Without Alcohol

Socialising as an adult doesn't always have to involve a glass of some alcoholic drink in our hands. There are heaps of alcohol-free activities with friends you could try to practice making friends with others (and yourself) sober.

Hiking with friends, watching the sunset, joining a class, or just chilling at a friend’s house... Even try switching the alcohol for it’s alcohol free version. It’s a healthy way to trick your mind into growing more comfortable in social situations. 

The idea of socialising without alcohol as a security blanket is ALWAYS worse in your head than it is in reality.

 

 

 

3. Step Out of Your Comfort Zone and Don’t Be Afraid to Make Mistakes

The truth is that no one is expecting you to speak or act perfectly. We’re all too busy worrying about ourselves. If you say something you think is stupid, chances are, others won't even notice or will forget it in about 5 minutes. 

So, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine even when you’re not drinking. And remember that it’s safe to be yourself. 

Again, it’s all about practice. Once you see you can do these things without alcohol, it only gets easier! 

 

4. "What other people think of me is none of my business."

Stop basing your self-worth on other people’s opinions! You don’t need validation from anyone but yourself! Once you build up your self-worth, you won’t need to rely on alcohol or other people to dictate who you are.

Having the attitude that you are independent, valuable and worthy will naturally build your confidence. And you won’t have to change yourself to do so.