How to Actually Enjoy a Christmas Party Without Drinking

Hi, I’m Dr Fiona Dowman, a Clinical Psychologist in the UK.

Episode Summary:

The Christmas party season can feel full of pressure especially if you’ve decided not to drink. You might worry about missing out, feeling awkward, or not enjoying yourself at all. But your experience at any event is shaped far more by what’s happening in your mind than what’s in your glass.

In this episode, I share a simple but powerful mindset shift that can completely change how you feel at a social event when you’re not drinking.

You’ll learn why your thoughts have such a strong influence on how you feel, why you don’t need to control them, and how to enjoy the parts of the evening that genuinely matter to you. Whether that’s having meaningful conversations, dancing, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, you can have a great time without relying on alcohol.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why two people can be in the same situation but have completely different emotional reactions
• How your thoughts shape your experience of a social event
• Why you don’t need to “get rid of” unhelpful thoughts to enjoy yourself
• The difference between noticing thoughts and getting caught up in them
• How to shift your attention back to what matters to you so you can actually have fun
• Practical ways to enjoy a Christmas party alcohol-free, without feeling left out or uncomfortable

🔗 Resources I Mention:

🎧 Free mini meditations delivered to your inbox to help you unwind without wine:
https://go.purplebridgepsychology.co.uk/unwind

📬 I’d love to know what thoughts tend to show up for you around social events or what you’re taking from this episode.
 You can reach me at: [email protected]

If this episode was helpful, please follow, leave a review, or share it with someone who’s thinking about a sober or sober-curious festive season.

As always, the advice in this podcast isn’t a substitute for personalised support. If you’re concerned about physical dependence on alcohol, please speak to your GP or your local alcohol service.

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