Cheers to Sobriety: How Women in Recovery Can Make Workplaces Alcohol-Safe (and Fun)

Hey there, sober ladies! Let's talk about creating alcohol-safe workplaces because, let's face it, stumbling into a Monday morning meeting with a hangover (or seeing your coworkers do it after you’ve been sober) is so last season.

Plus, the adrenaline rush from tackling your inbox is all the energy need for your case of the Mondays.

You've decided to embrace the sober life and you are now officially a card-carrying member of the "Water, juice or soda" club. Just kidding there are SO many non-alcoholic options now. The fun part: convincing your coworkers that happy hour doesn't have to involve alcohol to be, well, happy.

Here are some tips to help you navigate the murky waters of office culture while keeping it light and laughter-filled:

1. Lead by Example (and Awkward Dance Moves): Nothing says "I'm having a blast without alcohol" quite like busting out your best Carlton dance at the office party. Show your coworkers that sobriety doesn't mean sacrificing fun – it just means your dance moves might be a little less coordinated (but infinitely more entertaining).
2. Educate, Don't Inebriate: Instead of preaching from the proverbial soapbox about the perils of alcohol, why not educate your coworkers and higher-ups with a side of humor? Host a lunch-and-learn session where you share your journey to sobriety, peppered with anecdotes that'll have everyone in stitches. Who knew sober life could be so hilarious?
3. Create Booze-Free Bonding Activities: Who needs tequila shots when you've got team-building exercises that don't involve regrettable karaoke performances? Organize alcohol-free outings like hiking trips, escape rooms, or pottery classes – because nothing says "bonding" like trying not to drop a clay pot on your coworker's foot.
4. Mocktails for the Win: Just because you're skipping the hard stuff doesn't mean you have to miss out on delicious beverages. Channel your inner mixologist and whip up some mocktails that'll have your coworkers questioning why they ever needed alcohol in the first place. Bonus points if you give them punny names like "Sobri-Tea Spritzer" or "Mock-a-Rita." Plus there are tons of done-for-you products ready to crack open at every function just to make sure they are there.
5. Celebrate Sobriety Milestones: Whether it's your one-month, one-year, or one-decade sober anniversary, celebrate your milestones with gusto (and maybe a few confetti cannons). Show your coworkers that sobriety is something to be proud of, and that you're living your best life – one sober day at a time.

So there you have it, ladies – a crash course in creating alcohol-safe workplaces that's as funny as it is informative. You can learn more practical tools from this week's Confident Sober Women podcast with Janet Hadley .

Remember, sobriety is anything but boring – it's a chance to embrace life with open arms and a clear head. Now go forth, spread the sober love, and don't forget to bring your best dance moves to the next office party. Cheers to that! ??

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