I recently watched someone tell someone so confidently "i don't drink" and changed the topic, and it was really inspiring. I have seen so many posts on this board about "how do i tell people i don't drink" and i too sometimes fumble over words when ppl ask me why i am not drinking and I say

[u/New_Biscotti2669]

something like "i am taking a break" etc. When in reality, I know I am not taking a break (or i shouldn't be).

Watching this woman just shut down any conversation about drinking with a very confident "I don't drink" with no hesitation, was just so beautiful and empowering, I am going to move forward with this technique.

Truly, you don't owe anyone any explanation, in all honesty its sort of rude to ask someone why they are not drinking. Its actually such a personal question- maybe you are pregnant, an alcoholic, have a family member who is an alcoholic, are taking a certain medication, etc. A million reasons why someone could not drink that make the question insensitive.

[u/emergencyfruit]

One of the secret perks once you have some solid sober time is being able to tell people the truth without shame. I start with "no thanks", but if pressed for a reason, I'll straight up tell people, "I've been sober for two and a half years." I leave it at that, or throw in a quip about law school ruining drinking for me if I need to lighten the mood.

Not only will any decent person immediately back off, usually they'll congratulate me too. It was tough at first, but over time it gets easier. Once you have a milestone you're proud of, let it fly. It helps keep you accountable to yourself top. Good luck!