Staying Sober on Game Day? Here's 8 Tips for Success

Football season is back, baseball season is at its peak, and if you’re a soccer fan - it’s always game time, year round.

Game days are synonymous with excitement, camaraderie, and the thrill of competition. Whether it's cheering for your home team at a stadium, hosting a watch party at home, or joining friends at a local pub, these exciting events can often be accompanied by an abundance of alcohol.

So if you’re taking a booze break, DD-ing for the night, or hoping to drink moderately, it can be tough to navigate these social settings. But at Grüvi, we are in the business of elevating social experiences, no alcohol required.

With a little preparation and a positive mindset, you can enjoy game day festivities while sticking to your personal goals, whatever that may be. Here are 8 tips to help you succeed on game day and feel like a champ the next morning!

1. Plan Ahead and Set Clear Intentions

Before game day arrives, take a moment to plan and set clear intentions for the event. Remind yourself why staying sober is essential to you and envision how rewarding it will be to wake up the next day without a hangover or regrets.

Having a purposeful mindset will help in times of temptation so you can throw out a quick, “No, thanks!” and feel good about it.  

2. Choose a Sober Friendly Setting

Opt for game day gatherings that prioritize alcohol-free options or are supportive of your decision to stay sober that day. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals will make the experience more enjoyable and fulfilling.

Better yet - host your own watch party and provide a variety of non-alcoholic beverages for guests to enjoy. You can still make fun, exciting, and delicious drinks that everyone will enjoy. Check out these mocktail recipes for some great game day ideas!

3. Be the Designated Driver

This is an easy way to stick to your plan! Not only does offering to be the designated driver help your friends stay safe but also solidifies your commitment to staying sober.

Embrace the role and take pride in contributing to a fun and responsible game day experience for everyone.

4. Focus on the Game (or the Food)

Immerse yourself in the excitement of the game and the company of friends. Engaging in conversations, cheering for your team, and sharing in the collective energy of the event will keep your mind occupied and less focused on alcohol.

You can also elevate the the game day experience by putting the spotlight on the delicious finger food. Prepare a spread of mouthwatering snacks and appetizers that will satisfy everyone's taste buds.

The enjoyment of scrumptious food can become a central focus of the event, diverting attention away from the booze.

5. Hang with the Kids

A vision board journal combines written expressions with visual representations of your goals and aspirations.

Create a collage of inspiring images, quotes, and affirmations related to your goals. Writing about the emotions and aspirations these visuals evoke will strengthen your commitment to achieving your dreams. Plus it can be super fun to create and visually pleasing to admire later!

Staying Sober on Game Day

6. B.Y.O.NA

If you're attending a game or a gathering at a friend's house, bring your own supply of non-alcoholic beverages. Having your preferred drinks on hand ensures you won't feel left out and can fully enjoy the celebration without any temptations.

You can't go wrong with an award-winning non-alc beer on game day!

7. Use the Buddy System

Enlist the support of a friend or family member who knows about your commitment to staying sober for game day. Having an accountability buddy by your side on game day can provide encouragement, understanding, and a sense of reassurance. Team work makes the dream work!

8. Shift Your Perspective

During the game (and days before hand), practice mindfulness and be aware of any triggers that may tempt you to drink. If you feel pressured or uncomfortable, take a moment to step outside, breathe deeply, and remind yourself of all the benefits of staying sober today!

Call that accountability buddy or text someone you love who would be happy to hear from you.

By implementing these additional tips, you'll create an inclusive and enjoyable game day celebration that celebrates sobriety and camaraderie. Remember, you have the power to create lasting memories and celebrate the game without alcohol. Cheers to a sober, safe, and unforgettable game day!

This blog was written in part with Chat GPT.