Sober Summer - a guide to Enjoying the warmer months without risking your sobriety.

There have been some long-wet days, but it appears that the summer season is firmly upon us, with some warmer weather, longer days but also more temptations to drink, here is my sober summer guide to try to make it that little bit easier.

Finding Sober Social Activities

Plan ahead, go for a walk along the river head to the beach, or go to a local park, use this nicer weather to spend some time outside, but don’t forget the sun cream. There is a lot for us to do at this time of the year that does not involve alcohol, but sometimes we just need to try a little harder looking for those activities. Getting outside is great for mental well-being, so now is the time to make the most of the nice weather.

Building a Supportive Network

Find the right people and keep them close to you, this is both online and offline. Look for other sober people and find out what they are doing and spend time with them. Spend time with your drinking friends also but try to do this at events that don’t involve alcohol to try to involve triggers. Talk to family and friends about your sobriety and some will amaze you at how supportive they can be.

Dealing with Triggers and Temptations

Despite everything, there are likely to be times when you feel triggered to drink, have a plan in place for this, and have some alcohol-free drinks in mind in case you do end up in a pub or beer garden. Have an excuse ready in case you do need to make a speedy getaway, accept your triggers for what they are and move on from them.

Managing FOMO

When dealing with the fear of missing out (FOMO), I always focus on part of the equation rather than the full picture. For example, when I see someone drinking a pint of beer, I may think I wish I could have one, however, I never had one! I had one followed but eight more and woke up the next morning with horrible anxiety and regret. When I look at this full picture, I no longer want this drink. Remember the version that you see of someone, may not be the true version and even they may be wishing they were not drinking that beer.

Creating Healthy Boundaries

Tell people you are sober and be proud of it, Decide what your non-negotiables are, for me, this will often be, I will leave an event but 9 to 10 pm to ensure that I don’t feel too tired the next day, if someone wants a lift at that time, brill I take them but if they want to stay later, you’re finding your way home.

Be clear with your friends before you go out about what your boundaries are and stick to them. Both you and your friends will feel better about it in the long run.

Celebrating Milestones and Achievements

Celebrate your little milestones as well as the big, if you went to the beer garden with friends and did not feel triggered to drink, take time afterwards to recognise how amazing this is, and treat yourself to something small like a book or a massage, the money you have saved by not drinking, you can use to make yourself feel special, you are!

Embracing the Sober Lifestyle

Sober summers do not have to be less without alcohol, and in fact, they offer so much more, without battling with tiredness, hangovers or regret you can focus on summer for what it is. Better weather, longer days, time outdoors and more time with friends. Things that are all better when alcohol is not involved.

I hope you all have a great summer and get to enjoy some good weather finally. If you would like to share your sober plans this summer, you can contact me at info@itsthatsoberguy.com reach out on our social media channels or even better join the It’s That Sober Guy community below. Now get that sun cream on and enjoy the sunshine!

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Ben – It's That Sober Guy

Disclaimer – I am not a trained addiction or mental health professional, information is based on my own life experiences and shared in good faith to help others.

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