I’m Not 'That Guy'
I’m not the guy who lectures you about drinking.
I’m not the guy who orders sparkling water and turns it into a personality.
I’m not the guy who needs to explain why I’m not drinking.
I changed how I relate to alcohol.
That’s it.
I still host.
I still go out.
I still show up.
I just don’t drink the same way I used to.
And that doesn’t make me “that guy.”
It just makes me someone who changed his relationship with alcohol.
Not drinking — or drinking less — has a stereotype.
Suddenly you’re the wellness guy.
The sleep guy.
The toxin guy.
Every dinner becomes a panel discussion.
That’s not what this is.
I didn’t cut back to prove a point.
I cut back because I wanted to feel better.
Clearer mornings.
Better conversations.
More control over when the night ends.
Personal decision.
You can change without making it your identity.
You can grow without announcing it.
You can cut back and still be the same person.
I’m not that guy.
I’m just someone who changed.
And kept showing up.
Final word
You can decide to change.
You can do it quietly. Or loudly.
You don’t have to preach it.
Just live it.
That’s enough.
Lead by example.
Don’t make people feel guilty.
That’s how change actually spreads.
SP.
I love this.
I quit 38 months ago and feel amazing. It was a struggle at first, ppl judged me. When truly I wanted a healthy change for myself and to be present always for my kids I am a single mom too
Thanks for sharing this story 🥰
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Upside Drinks replied:
Hi Amber, it’s really inspiring to hear how you’ve prioritized your health and your kids to reach such an amazing 38-month milestone. Choosing to stay present as a single mom is the ultimate “why,” and we are truly honored to be part of your journey!
Amen to that!
I needed to change because it had become a problem! That doesn’t mean that I lost “me”. I’m still able to be in a social environment while others enjoy themselves while drinking. If I had continued “me” would have been lost…
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Upside Drinks replied:
Hi Matt, it takes a lot of strength to recognize that shift and choose to protect the person you really are. We’re glad you’ve found a way to stay social and present without losing yourself in the process. Thank you for sharing that powerful perspective with us!
Awesome.
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Upside Drinks replied:
Hi Mark, I’m glad that it resonated. Thanks for taking the time to dive in!
Spot on! Going alcohol free almost three years ago was a huge lifestyle change for me and I had a LOT to work through. Initially, I didn’t want to talk about it all – but everyone else did – and I often experienced the uncomfortable interview panel situation. I then phased into wanting to talk it out more with close friends and family and tried to honestly answer friend’s questions, but it sometimes backfired and I found others acting defensively about their choices – never my intention. Through it all, I have continued to spend time with those I love, including socializing, dining and attending events where alcohol is served and often a main focus. Balance for me means letting others live their lives judgement free and also choosing to call it a night if others are getting sloppy and repetitive. But also, and this is key, acknowledging that I shouldn’t have to hide my truth to protect the comfort of others, because I deserve to speak freely about my journey too. Enter trusted allies – fellow alcohol free companions, a group that it slowly growing its membership as more time passes! It nice to chat with those that truly understand the challenges of living alcohol free in an alcohol soaked world! Keeping my fridge and pantry stocked with a host of exciting beverages from Upside Drinks for over two years has been a lifesaver! I’m surprised at how many people are curious to see what I’m drinking, and always bring extras with me in case anyone wants to try. Live the good life but stay off the podium about it!
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Upside Drinks replied:
Hi Kristine! It sounds like you’ve navigated that transition with so much grace, especially finding that sweet spot between honoring your own truth and letting others be. That “interview panel” feeling is so real, but it’s wonderful that you’ve built a circle of allies and a stocked fridge to make the social side feel like a celebration rather than a hurdle. Cheers to three years of living the good life on your own terms, and always having an extra Upside Drink to share. We are truly grateful for your support over the last two years and for being such a bright light in the Upside community!
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