Dry January is a challenge where people go alcohol-free for the first month of the year.
Everyone has different reasons for taking part in Dry January. After the indulgent Christmas period, some want to give their liver a break while others take part to save some money after an expensive December.
According to Alcohol Change UK, the benefits of going booze-free for a month are numerous; 88% saved money, 71% slept better and 58% lost weight.
However, it is a challenge, after all, and many people don't always complete Dry January; in fact, a third of Brits have already failed the challenge, according to a YouGov survey .
NetVoucherCodes are encouraging Brits to organise dry events throughout the months and have revealed some tips and tricks you can follow to ensure your Dry January is a success.
NetVoucherCodes 6 top tips for completing Dry January
Tick it off
By ticking off each day you stay dry, you’ll be able to see that the end is in sight and it will make the task seem much more manageable.
Opt for alcohol free alternatives
Many bars and restaurants now serve mocktails or alcohol-free versions of drinks such as gin or beer; this means that you can enjoy the taste, and quench the craving, without breaking your resolution.
Organise more dry events
There's more to life than the pub and just because you’re not drinking this month doesn’t mean you should stay in the house and not socialise.
Organise dry events with friends, such as bowling or a trip to the cinema; you'll probably spend more quality time with them than you perhaps would on a night out when you’re all a bit tipsy.
Spreading these activities throughout the month means you'll have something to look forward to, instead of focusing on what you’re missing.
Designated driver
By offering to be designated driver, any temptation to drink will be taken away because of your duty. Legally not being able to drink holds you to account a bit more than simply not wanting to.
Plan February
If you’re really struggling, put some time and effort into planning the perfect night out in February to celebrate your well-earned first drink of the decade. Make sure your friends are available, tables are booked and you're sure to have an amazing first night out.
Be kind
Perhaps the most important rule is: be kind to yourself.
If you break Dry January and succumb to a drink or two, don't beat yourself up about it.
Instead, try and justify it in your head by doing an extra dry day or two at the start of February to make up for it.
