79. How To Rock The Holidays Alcohol-Free

Are you feeling anxious about celebrating the holidays without alcohol? Even for alcohol-free veterans, the holidays can trigger some anxieties that you thought were long gone and extinguished. No matter where you are, this season can be stressful, and that’s okay! 

In this episode, Amanda talks about dealing with all the emotions and situations that arise during the holiday season – All without relying on alcohol as a coping mechanism. If you want to celebrate the holidays in a healthier and more mindful way, this episode is one big permission slip to really advocate for yourself, your sanity, and your own goals! 

🌟 “Unbottled Potential” is available in Paperback, Kindle, and Audiobook form! You can order your copy here. You can also order the book on Amazon and various other platforms. 

[00:01 - 03:35] How to Embrace Joy and Manage Stress

• We talk about tools and strategies for managing holiday stresses, drama, busyness, joy, and happiness without alcohol.

• It’s important not to neglect your needs throughout the holiday hustle.

• It’s common to feel big feelings and some emotional regression in familiar, past family settings, so it’s important to know how to handle unexpected feelings.

• This episode provides tips on how to advocate for yourself for a fulfilling holiday experience.

[03:36 - 10:40] You Have the Permission to Advocate For Yourself 

• Anticipate potential stressors so that you don’t approach them blindly and can plan for stumbling blocks.

• Ask yourself what kind of tools you need to help yourself. What can you put in your toolbox, physical or metaphysical, to help you through these periods?

• Use the HALT acronym (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired) to identify emotional triggers. 

• It’s so important to set boundaries, even if it means declining certain events, to maintain a commitment to your personal well-being and sobriety.

• Communicate with your host and set verbal boundaries beforehand. This conversation may feel uncomfortable, but it helps set you up for future gatherings.

[10:41 - 17:24] Don’t Be Afraid to Use Unconventional Ways to Protect Your Peace 

• Opt for an Airbnb instead of staying in your family home during visits.

• It can be more rejuvenating to have a neutral space as a haven to help avoid the regression often felt when staying in your family home.

• This also reduces overstimulation from constant interaction.

• You have the permission to advocate for yourself! Plan and take control of your holiday experiences for a more peaceful and fulfilling season.

[17:25 - 21:16] It’s Easier to Stop and Stay Stopped

• Alcohol isn’t necessary for celebration; It actually diminishes your ability to fully experience joy, and connection.

• It is much easier to stop and stay stopped than it is to stop and start and stop again. 

• True happiness and connection are more fulfilling than the temporary escape provided by alcohol. 

• Avoiding alcohol is not just about navigating stress or family dynamics but also about fully embracing and experiencing the joy of the holidays.

Resources Mentioned: 

• The Book of Boundaries by Melissa Urban

Key Quotes:

“As empaths, people-pleasers, and ambitious people who are on the move, sometimes we forget ourselves. We forget what we need and what we can best support oursel