Her Campus Northwestern does not support drinking illegally (underage or otherwise). Opinions expressed are from an anonymous contributor and do not represent the views of Her Campus Northwestern. Drink responsibly.
I haven’t had a sip of alcohol since October 31. It has not been a long break, but it is a much needed pause before my 21st birthday later on this month. So, here is a list of seven things I learned while on my mini alcohol cleanse:
You can have fun while sober (!!!)
Prior to my break, I honestly could not tell you the last time I attended a party while not being some form of “turnt.” During my cleanse, I attended a few parties sober. I went to my sorority formal and some kickbacks. I was shocked at my self-control, but I did it. I realized that you can have just as much fun as someone who is drunk. I know- I was shocked myself. I think the important thing here is that you make what you will of the night.
I spend a lot of time going out.
If I were to add the amount of nights and hours I spend going out it would total about 15 hours a week. This includes getting ready, pregaming, traveling and attending the event for three days. The time I dedicated to making sure I looked good and that I was drunk enough to even attend the event is certainly time well spent in some cases and wasted in others. Taking a break from alcohol allowed me to see just how much effort it takes to go out, and it really helped put things in perspective.
I spend a lot of money partying.
While looking at my bank account, I cringe because I have spent so much money on going out, outfits and alcohol. The break that I took allowed me to see just how much of my paycheck actually went toward going out. After this cleanse, I am hoping to spend my hard earned money on adventures and taking trips to Chicago instead!
I have friends I only party with.
Okay, this I was kinda of aware of. But, I did not truly grasp it until I was out and saw friends I only interact with when I’m drunk. I clearly remember making drunk promises to hang out with these friends. However, when night turned to day, they would give me the run around or cancel. I realize these friends are not worth my time or energy. In the future, I do not plan on reaching out to them.
I use alcohol to avoid my problems.
I used alcohol as way to mask my problems and feelings. This was a subconscious habit that became conscious during my cleanse. I began to take notice as I went about my day, and the stress began to take over. I would think to myself that I wanted a drink to relax. I soon discovered my habit of using alcohol as a way to not think of current problems or issues. The cleanse taught me that instead of masking my problems with alcohol I need to unpack and process. This will be so much healthier for myself, both mentally and emotionally!
I use alcohol to connect with people
I hate feeling awkward and being uncomfortable in social situations which is why I would drink in social settings. This cleanse allowed me to handle with my unpleasant feelings and instead go out of my comfort zone to meet new people. I think it is important to realize that social interactions are scary. I now know that the individuals are just people and that you do not need alcohol to act normal is important.
There are other ways to hang out with people in college
The most important thing this cleanse taught me is that there are other ways to hang out with people in college. You can study with them, make a no-bake dessert, go for a run or hike, travel to Chicago, go find a new coffee shop and so much more! I have come to find that the moments I spend sober with friends have been more valuable than spending the night raging. I will continue to hang out with friends while sober to grow our friendships even more.
These past few weeks were not easy, especially with the ways in which I have been socialized and pressured in college to drink. It is so easy to slip into a pattern that is conducive to alcoholism and addiction, but I truly believe that taking time not drinking can help place a lot of things into perspective.
Cover photo from Shape