On Drinking and Social Gatherings

Over-consumption of alcohol at home or in a social setting is an excellent way to kill momentum.

A vice that tends to exacerbate mental struggles, drinking can take a toll on one’s physical and mental health alike. A Saturday night out can turn into a lingering anxiety that clings to you like a leech for the majority of the week.

That is until Friday hits again and you find yourself lost in the same weekend feedback loop.

Binge drinking can also be associated with feeling uncomfortable in social situations or succumbing to peer pressure.

A simple test of whether you’re hanging out with friends vs. trying to fit in is to ask this question.

If I didn’t drink at this event, would I still enjoy everyone’s company just as much?

Let’s say you answer that question with a yes. Excellent. Then, there should be no need to drink heavily if you don’t want to.

There may be an adjustment period where your friends are confused with your choice, but friends tend to be elastic in their thinking.

If the answer is no, however, then you have a decision to make. Sacrifice your health and momentum for people you don’t feel comfortable around or find a different group to socialize with.

Both options are tough in nature, but taking a step back and making that honest assessment will reveal the answer.

Remember, the nature of your choices are a drop of water in a large bucket when it comes to another human. If you make a change for your greater good, it won’t change them much.