The holidays are stressful for everyone: too many obligations, awkward dinners with distant relatives, last-minute gift runs for coworkers you barely know—and booze at every turn.

If you’re navigating the holiday season sober (or just sober-curious), you already know it can feel like a minefield. 

That said, you can do it! 

With some planning ahead, firm boundaries, and delicious NA beverages, you’ll make it to January 1st without a hangover. 

PROTECT YOUR PEACE - AND YOUR SCHEDULE

By the time Halloween rolls around, we’ve probably received at least one text asking about our plans for the holidays. There are Secret Santas, family get-togethers, office parties and friendsgivings. The offers (or demands, as the case may be) are nonstop, which is why we have to know our limits. 

A quick way to jeopardize your sobriety is to stretch yourself too thin. This year, make “no” your holiday mantra. 

The world won’t stop turning if you let the family know that you’ll only be able to pop in for dessert this Thanksgiving. Protecting your time protects your sobriety.

If you undercommit, everyone is pleasantly surprised when you show up against the odds. Burnout can lead to a mindless run to the liquor store, so underpromise and overdeliver.

You aren’t Santa Claus.

Protecting your time protects your sobriety.

OPTIONS ARE EVERYTHING - ALWAYS BRING YOUR OWN! 

Don’t leave it up to chance. Never expect anyone to provide non-alcoholic options - at least not great ones.

I always show up with a favorite NA bevvie, just in case I get met with the classic, “Oh, sure. There’s sparkling water in the fridge.” 

I like to grab a handful of different Curious Elixirs flavors, then build a custom 4-pack at home to bring to parties! That way, I’m never bored or empty-handed. Mix and match your favorites!

I’d go with Curious Elixir No. 1 (pomegranate negroni with rhodiola to balance cortisol), Curious Elixir No. 3 (an ashwagandha infused cucumber collins), Curious Elixir No. 5 (a smoky number with the aphrodisiac shatavari), and Curious Elixir No. 9  (with South African Kanna for a euphoric, floaty vibe that’s sure to make the small talk more bearable).

YOU DO YOU - UNAPOLOGETICALLY

Remember that you don’t owe anyone your sobriety or an explanation about why you aren’t drinking. If you’re still unsure what your relationship with alcohol looks like or want to avoid labeling your booze-free season, just tell people you’re taking a break. 

If you feel pressured to drink it’s ok to slip out early. I’m personally a big fan of the quick exit – and after a few glasses of eggnog, no one will notice. 

Staying sober through the holidays isn’t about missing out—it’s about showing up fully present. 

Find more information, support, and all-around guidance from Kristen Bear, aka Creative Sobriety (pictured above), on her website.