How (not) to... Drink Mindfully

Don’t just find another job
We have met tons of people in hospitality who have made very radical steps to cut down – so they can continue working in this career that they love! Lots of people who have given up run pubs, bars and restaurants. There are people who happily work alongside alcohol but don’t drink it and have really successful careers.

Explore ways to change how you drink
It's worth working out what techniques work for you. People find that taking days off and having completely alcohol-free days [can be] helpful. Think about what drink you most enjoy; who you most enjoy drinking it with; and do you most enjoy drinking it. Try starting your evening with an alcohol-free drink; it can [help you get] the lay of the land, then you can decide whether this is the day that you want to drink. Are you with people and in a place that you really like, or is it just mindless drinking?

Keep taking part in the ritual
Substitution is a really important behaviour-change tool. You can keep your ritual, like your end-of-work drinks with your colleagues, but you can change the substance: pick up an alcohol-free drink or make a hot drink. You could reduce the ABV of a cocktail with a fortified wine to make a longer spritz-type drink. Find something that feels really good for you that feels like you're taking part.

Be wary of mindless moments
Often hospitality people drink when they are hungry and tired – which happens a lot when you're on shift. Make sure you're getting both those basic needs met: drink some water and eat right. Also, you don't have to stay at after work events all the time – you are able to go home.

Talk about it
If you find alcohol is taking your energy, it's worth talking to your manager and say you want to cut down on drinking. They desperately want you to turn up on time, pull your weight and feel energised while working.

Advocate for alcohol-free products at work
There's no reason why you couldn't become an advocate for a good range of alcohol-free range drinks in your bar, to benefit your customer and yourself. At the end of the day, it's all drinks and your knowledge about them is as valid as any other drink.

Drinks industry professionals can find help to drink more mindfully, with in-depth learning, tools and community support, at clubsoda.me/drinkstrust