On a regular day, going about business becomes a routine. Wake up, go to class, sometimes the gym, and then maybe homework and hanging out with friends. Cutting out certain activities to see if the withdrawal is manageable can often be challenging. Lately, I’ve been on a health kick and decided I would cut alcohol out of my diet completely. Shouldn’t be too difficult, right?
I originally thought the challenge wouldn’t be too hard considering I wouldn’t call myself the typical college partier. I’ll often go out with friends but only on the weekends. On the average weeknight I’m in my room studying for exams that won’t make an appearance for a couple weeks.
I started the experiment on a Wednesday and at first I didn’t think twice about it. Me and my best friend had gone out to get burritos after we had finished our homework (or attempted to) and we ended up talking for hours and going to bed shortly after.
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday were a different story…
Thursday 10:02 PM: Just arrived at a party, and 4 people have offered me shots… I said no of course.
Thursday 10:08 PM: Okay well I said no to the first 3 people… Just kidding maybe it was just the first.
Thursday 10:43 PM: I should go get myself a giant burrito for being so successful in not drinking tonight. (And yes, I did have one the day before, too.)
Friday 11:20 PM: Haven’t been drinking at this party thus far, and no I can feel myself caving to peer pressure.
Friday 11:21 PM: Okay that’s it I will have a sip of beer, but only one sip! That’s it.
Friday 11:50 PM: Okay, yes it might have possibly been a full beer. Is that beer pong over there?
Saturday 10:18 PM: I can do this; this should not be too difficult, right?!
Saturday 11:31 PM: Did not have one sip of alcohol the entire night…. Actually though.
Saturday 12:56 PM: I should really go home before I crack completely.
Throughout the next week I was tempted occasionally when I had friends leaving to go out or go to parties but I continued to remind myself why I was doing it- to not only detox and cleanse but also to demonstrate that I was capable of cutting out alcohol completely and being okay with it.
Although I encountered weak moments during the week I realized when the experiement came to a close that I had taken much more away from the experience than just detoxing and cleansing. While some say that alcohol is not necessary to have a good time with friends I was able to witness and experience this first-hand. Even though I have realized that drunkness does not need to be apparent in order to enjoy company with friends, I can’t promise that I will be attempting this experiment again.