5 Dry January Hacks That Will Get You Through the Month

Plenty of us use the new year as a way to hit reset on some aspect of our lives, whether it’s getting more organized, kickstarting your fitness routine, or abstaining from alcohol for a few weeks. Dry January has taken off as a super popular New Year’s Resolution but as we all know, resolutions have a reputation for being tough to stick to (no judgment). Whether you overdid it over the holiday break and need a rest or you’re trying to save money, there are plenty of reasons to go alcohol free, even for a few weeks. You may need a little help maintaining your motivation, though (a glass of wine at the end of a bad day can be so tempting). If so, here are five Dry January hacks to help you stay on the sober track.

Don’t go it alone. You know how eating healthy or going to the gym is way easier when you’ve got a buddy to do it with? This is the same concept. Having a friend or even a few friends to do a sober January with keeps you all accountable and provides a support system. It also increases the chances you’ll succeed. Start a group text to check in (or commiserate) with each other and keep you all on track.

Save your money. A good way to stay focused on your Dry January goal is to remind yourself of what you’re gaining rather than what you’re losing. For example: money. Start putting the money you would’ve normally spent at the bar or at the liquor store into an envelope or transfer into a savings account (remember to track the amount), and at the end of the month, buy yourself something special or donate your savings to a cause you’re passionate about. How good does that feel?

Swap in some yummy alternative beverages. Going without alcohol shouldn’t feel like you’re punishing yourself. Try creating special mocktails or even fruit-infused waters to sub in for your evening drink. Stock up on seltzer in various flavors (great if you typically go for club soda cocktails). Drink from a nice glass with ice cubes from a tray and a lime wedge or other garnish. You’ll feel like you’re treating yourself and less like you’re missing out.

Download the app. Yes, there’s a Dry January app. And a podcast. And a blog. At AlcoholChange.org.uk you can get digital support and resources to help you stay the sober course.

Don’t punish yourself. If you need to lean into the sober month challenge, do it: try gradually reducing how many drinks you have per week rather than going cold turkey. If you slip and have a drink it doesn’t mean all is lost–so rather than berate yourself for failing, get back to it and try again. You’re making progress, regardless.

What are your Dry January tips? Tell us in the comments!