Article: If you're driving to this event in a group, offer to be the designated driver. Having a reason to stay sober will help others respect your decision. Very few people will offer a drink to someone who's driving people home afterward. If they do, you'll have an understandable excuse. Spend time with other designated drivers when at the party or special event. There is often strength in numbers when it comes to peer pressure. Go with a group to this special event, and let them know beforehand you don't plan to drink. You can tell them why if you feel comfortable, or you can just tell them you're cutting back on alcohol. Your friends can offer their support if others start pressuring you. Choose friends you trust and know will respect your decision. If you have a friend who also doesn't drink, ask them to come. Don't rely too heavily on your friends' support. You may spend time without them at this event and will need your own motivation. Tell the host you do not drink to avoid awkward situations. Your host will them know not to offer you a drink or toast with you. You can avoid hurting their feelings, and they can avoid putting you in an uncomfortable situation. Decide on a few phrases you will say beforehand if someone offers you a drink. If you don't plan a response or two, you might feel tongue-tied when the moment comes. Your response doesn't have to be vulnerable or complicated: even a simple, "I appreciate it, but no thanks!" will do. If you think you might be tempted, stay away from people or places you might give into pressure. Drinking when you've decided not to will only hurt your self-respect in the long run. Prevent putting yourself in a compromising situation by avoiding it entirely. Ask yourself personal questions if you feel pressured: why do I want to give in? What will I lose if I have a drink? What's more important: long-term satisfaction or short-term comfort? Don't let anyone or anything compromise your personal convictions.
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Become the designated driver. Let your friends know so you have allies. Give the host an advance notice, if applicable. Prepare a few stock phrases in advance. Avoid situations where you know you'll be triggered.