Two weeks time major challenge work do

[Longshot]

I've a major work do coming up in two weeks time.

Before you ask, yes I do have to attend. It's the end of the massive project that means the huge majority of staff finish on the job. It's the a major milestone, and will be the last time I could see some people who have been a huge part of my life for the past 6 months. Furthermore I'm in charge of a big presentation (as sort of video "thank you" to all the staff)

My immediate boss, my closest colleague, my supervisor, her supervisor are all going to be in attendance, and are aware of my problem. So I won't be drinking in front of them. I know my wife will be massively stressed, and I'm thinking of asking for dispensation to let her come (hey it's not like either one of us is going to be charging for a massive bar bill)

Any other ideas on mitigating/getting through this?

[goingsobermum]

Two weeks time major challenge work do

Just go there knowing that you don't want to drink and won't do so, if you are saying that you won't drink infront of your boss etc then you perhaps have the idea of drinking when they are not around, you need to try and get that idea out of your head. Meditate and visualise yourself saying 'fruitjuice please' or 'water please' or 'I don't drink alcohol' and feeling good about it. You will feel so good about yourself when you get through it sober and will probably enjoy it more. Chances are you'll meet other nice sober people that you'd have never met had you been drinking. I don't think you need someone there to stop you drinking you just need to believe in yourself and the fact that alcohol isn't essential.
Good luck

[Doggygirl]

Two weeks time major challenge work do

Hi Longshot. Here are my strategies for attending events where the AL will be flowing:

1. Eat before I go. I am less anxious for AL on a full stomach.
2. Decide in advance what I WILL drink, and bring some with me if appropriate. (being prepared upon arrival to say "Diet Coke" or whatever when asked what I'll have is a big help to me)
3. Arrive late. (this may not be possible since you are presenting. But maybe you can plan to busy yourself with preparations for the presentation so no room for AL)
4. Have an exit strategy. I am ALWAYS willing to leave an event early rather than drink. I always have my own transporation and a game plan. (you could think about how you will untangle yourself from the group once the presentation is over, if temptation gets great)

I think it would be great if your wife could be there since you think that would help. I'm not sure how your boss is, but with my past corporate bosses I wouldn't hesitate to say something like "my husband has been a huge support to me through this project. Would it be OK if he came to see the presentation?"

Best wishes to you. Please remember that we DO NOT HAVE TO DRINK just because a lot of AL is there. It's poison to us. We deserve better than that.

DG

[Peacefull]

Two weeks time major challenge work do

Hi Longshot,

It's times like these early on that are very challenging. If you have ppl around you that know you have quit, it should be easier. We need to stay in the mindset that we don't drink - period. It's hard, but you will feel soooo much better than any temporary pleasure drinking will give you. You will be stronger for making it without AL. If there are ( and I know there always is) ppl questioning why you aren't drinking - driving is a good reason not to, and IMHO little white lies are allowed right now, say you're on medication.

I have a similar situation coming up and I think it must be the same day. I am stressing a bit, but need to be true to myself. I will use driving and off sugar - as AL is sugar.

Take care and think how wonderful you will feel afterward for not drinking.

[Sunnyvalenting]

Two weeks time major challenge work do

One of the cues many people find troubling when abstaining early in the process is places or situations which they associate with drinking in the past. Our brain wires in the association. Our smart brain knows better but our addicted brain is motivated to drink. This motivation can be very strong and at times lead to relapse. (True in rats as well!)
It is for this reason that, in some treatment models clients are given drug such as naltrexone or disulfuram to help them avoid drinking in just these situations. If your doctor knows about your prior problems with alcohol can you ask him/her for a quantity of naltrexone (or low dose baclofen?) To take during this stressful time? If not you may wish to take your laptop and sign on to MWO regularly for a social support boost! If you think having your wife there take her by all means even if you have to pay for her travel.
Also if you are an AA member maybe someone to connect with in that location who you can be accountable to.
I found it very hard to ask for help but am learning that we don't have to do this entirely on our own.
Just some thoughts. I can so relate. For me it is as tho when I was not at home the rules were suspended. Also sometimes the more important it was not to drink the more likely I was to do so.
Sunny