Holiday gatherings can bring up so many feelings, especially if you’re trying to avoid alcohol or cut back. Between the toasts, the festive cocktails, and everyone having “just one more,” it can feel like being left out or standing out in an uncomfortable way.

Every social event you’ve ever been to, whether there’s alcohol or not, is ultimately about connection.

The people who truly matter are there to see you—not what’s in your glass.

If that’s not true, why are you going?

Taking a different approach to parties and gatherings can actually be a way to strengthen your connections.

You are present, you remember, you put your best foot forward, you are helpful and kind…

One idea?

Before heading to a holiday gathering, take a moment to set an intention for how you’d like to feel or what you’d like to experience. It might be as simple as, “I want to feel present and really listen to people tonight.”

Then, plan to bring along your favorite non-alcoholic drink or mocktail.

You’ll have something in hand, and by choosing to focus on the people, not the drinks, you’re setting yourself up to leave feeling good about the experience.

If anyone asks you why you aren’t drinking, you can repeat your intention to them. It feels important for me to be fully present and really listen to people tonight.

Who’s going to argue with that? No one you want to spend time with!

Rather than looking for ways to escape, what if you focused on smaller, meaningful ways to actually enjoy each part of the season?

Bring a new way to celebrate to the party. I know it seems simple but it actually makes a HUGE impact.

For me, shifting from the commercial idea of celebrations to honoring the natural wheel of the year has given me permission to slow down when the season calls for it.

I invite people to share what they are giving and receiving.

I don’t have to take on everyone else’s expectations.

Instead, I can connect to life in a way that feels wholesome and good and invites people into a new experience.

Holiday stress doesn’t have to feel inevitable.

What is your mind focused on right now? That’s a great place to start.

When we start to shift our approach, we create new ways to feel calm and centered that don’t depend on what’s in our glass.

If you aren’t already registered I am hosting a free 5 part workshop for the holidays called, holiday harmony as an offering to help you get the most out of the season, hangover free. Space is limited, Register HERE.