Sober October check-in: Why I'm trading my Friday night wine ritual for more energy
Waking up with more energy on the weekends is a bonus.
Image: Freepik
It’s already mid-October, and if you’re like me, you might have taken on the Sober October challenge.
For an entire month, we're saying "no thanks" to alcohol.
Why? For me, it was a simple personal dare: Can I really go a whole month without a drink?
I’ll be honest, I’m not what you'd call a heavy drinker.
My usual go-tos are a crisp gin and tonic or a celebratory glass of bubbly, which is my absolute favourite.
Since I rarely drink alone, my drinking is almost entirely social.
A couple of glasses of wine with family at a get-together, or coming up with creative cocktails on girl nights, that sort of thing.
Because of this, the first half of the month, which I’ve mostly spent alone, hasn't actually been that difficult.
The toughest part of this whole challenge, surprisingly, has been my Friday night ritual.
After a long, stressful work week, I truly miss that moment of unwinding.
Putting on my favourite music, getting dinner ready, and sipping on a lovely glass of wine while I cook.
That’s when I really feel the absence of a drink. It was my little, well-deserved transition into the weekend.
Enjoying a glass of wine while cooking is my way to unwind.
Image: Lisa for Pexels
Despite missing my cooking companion, there’s a big upside I’m already noticing.
I just love waking up fresh on a weekend.
While I rarely get full-blown hangovers, I would definitely feel a bit sluggish after even a few drinks the night before.
Now, I have so much more energy. I’m actually getting things done instead of easing into the day.
That feeling alone is a huge motivator.
I’m also pretty proud of myself. I have a fully stocked home bar, and it hasn't been touched.
It's sitting there, patiently waiting, but I haven't caved.
The real test is yet to come.
I have a social gathering coming up where alcohol will definitely be flowing, and I think that’s when my commitment will be truly challenged.
It’s one thing to pass up a drink when you’re on your couch, but it’s another when you’re surrounded by people celebrating.
With the festive season right around the corner, bringing with it one event after the other, this break feels timely.
Perhaps this Sober October will influence how I manage social situations and alcohol moving forward.
It’s a great opportunity to pause and reflect before the end-of-year rush begins.
This break isn't about giving up forever; it's about seeing what's possible and checking in with myself. And so far, so good.