Sober raving: your survival guide

What’s it like going sober - drinks or otherwise - to an all-nighter while your mates are getting on it? Is it possible to maximise your good times while minimising your intake? Read on for the lowdown.⁠

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REMIND YOURSELF WHY YOU'RE GOING OUT IN THE FIRST PLACE⁠
How often do you take a moment to think about the reason *why* you're going out? If you want to lament the fact that you're not getting twisted or live vicariously through those that are then do yourself a favour and stay at home. If you want to make connections, celebrate life and dance the night away to music you love then get on out there.⁠
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HAVE AN EXIT PLAN⁠
Knowing you can head home at any point is helpful. When things start to get a little too messy, you can leave and quickly get yourself in bed. This isn’t to say that you will want to leave early but there’s nothing wrong with having a backup escape plan. Another pro-tip can be to drive yourself there (and back). This gives you an extra incentive not to consume anything.⁠
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HAVE A DRINK IN MIND⁠
Having a tee-total drink order can help you not feel left out when people are getting the rounds in. With all the new 0% beers and spirits, there have never been so many non-alcoholic options. Experiment and find your own go-to.⁠
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THE RIGHT MATES, THE RIGHT MINDSET⁠
Going sober doesn’t have to be a black and white thing. Do what’s achievable. You don’t have to cut everything out at once - that can be too much pressure. And talking of pressure, surround yourself with mates who “get it” and aren’t going to be pushing you off your path.⁠