IS LESS MORE? Here are some sensible ideas for curtailing your intake while networking. We all have our own reasons why. Maybe it is time to modify your alcohol intake and approach drinking while networking with a “quality not quantity” mindset. When done mindfully, you will begin a healthy task that will be worth your while. Let’s face it, you don’t need a drink to become relaxed and have fun, though you also don’t need to give up your favorite cocktail or glass of wine to be healthy and happy. Somewhere in-between we can all find middle ground and finding that zone boils down to thoughtful choices and moderation.
Substitute drinking with another activity. Conferences and trade shows always do a great job of building in time post scheduled meetings and prior to evening activities. This is when a solid number of us unwind by toasting to one another. Instead, selecting an enjoyable opportunity with colleagues allows you to focus on an activity with action (going to a museum, a sporting event, renting scooters, etc.) rather than inaction (becoming sedentary). Choosing a positive activity, or one that you look forward to like sightseeing, will shift your mindset. Determining what you can do instead that you look forward to may have the side effect of not consuming alcohol, or at minimum reducing your intake.
Be aware. Exercising mindfulness while enjoying cocktails helps you enjoy and be grateful for what you are consuming without the impulse to over-indulge. How does mindful drinking work? Begin by being thoughtful about each drink you consume, and do not grab the next glass of bourbon just because you have finished your first. Be aware of this routine, and be mindful to drink slowly and be present. Observe what it smells and tastes like, even how it feels on your tongue. Notice how it makes you feel. Are you tired, relaxed, talkative, maybe even a bit dehydrated? Appreciate the flavor. What type of glass were you served? Who are you with? And on and on. Not a simple task in the moment, but over time you’ll find that the more present you are, the less you will consume.
Take a beat. Habits can completely shift by tweaking the moments in-between drinks and mindful drinking can become your norm. Try this next time you are drinking while in a social setting: Finish your last sip and then pause, reflect whether you truly want another drink, or if you’d like to take a break. This simple thought process can lead to making a choice based on how you feel. Maybe you will tap into a feeling of dehydration and order a glass of water instead. Pausing just might lead to realizing you are ordering another cocktail just because it’s there, not because it is bringing you enjoyment.
