Here's the truth about Sober October. Not drinking is easy. Your mates are the problem.
Every group has them. And by about 7 October, they'll all have shown their hand. Let's meet them. And yes, I market pub quizzes for a living, so I've met every one of these people. Several times. In one evening.
The Pusher
“Go on. Just one. One won't hurt. It's Friday!”
He says it like he's discovered fire. The Pusher means no harm. He just can't cope with a pint glass that isn't full of lager.
Your weapon: an alcohol-free beer in your hand at all times. If it looks like a pint, he relaxes. Forgot To Take My Pils is so good he might nick one.
The Detective
“Why aren't you drinking? Are you ill? Is it a court order?”
Give him a short answer. “I'm raising money for Macmillan.” Nobody argues with a cancer charity. Send him your Go Sober for October link. The Detective becomes your biggest sponsor.
The Martyr
“I couldn't do it. I'd go mad. Fair play to you, I could never.”
He says this while ordering his fourth pint. Smile, nod, let him buy you a lime and soda.
The Runner
He did Sober October two years ago and never came back. Now he does five-hour runs every Sunday and talks about “fuelling”. He swapped hangovers for hamstrings. Still out the game, just with better calves. He'll tell you Sober October changed his life. Then leave at 8pm for an early night.
The Convert
Week three, someone quietly asks what you're drinking. Then they order one. Congratulations. Like Obi-Wan, you've passed on the knowledge.
The Legend
Every group has one mate who doesn't care what's in your glass. They're just glad you came. Keep your friends close, and the Legends closer.
How to win the month
Keep showing up. Offer to drive. Bring your own to house parties: a box of Savyll Moscow Mules and you're the most popular person in the kitchen.
The deal bit
Mix any 6 drinks and get 5% off, up to 15% for 24. Everything else is in our Sober October guide.
The serious bit
If you drink heavily every day, speak to your GP before you take a month off, because stopping suddenly can be dangerous. And if you slip up, it's not the end of the world. Dust yourself off and carry on.
