“Positive thinking is a healthy tonic. Think well of yourself. Think yourself well.”

Some of the more difficult urges/pressures that seem to hang on for weeks after you’ve stopped are usually linked to certain situations. You may find that some of the strongest cravings come around certain people, places, or events. It’s much more likely to be a problem if you are spending a lot of time around a friend who is a heavy drinker. You can still spend time with that person, but make sure it is limited and not in any situation where you both used to drink together. Here are some other tips that may help with these situations:

• If you tended to get preoccupied about the weekend in your car, for example, try listening to a CD while you drive that relaxes or energizes you to help keep the focus off the pre-occupation. Stay away from music you associated with parties. Sing like crazy to your favorite songs!
• Try taking a different route than usual.
• Chew on a straw or toothpick while driving.
• Explore new places to go that you will not associate with drinking.
• Maybe you can convince your heavy drinking friend to go somewhere else for a weekend night where you would not be able to drink.

Remember, if you even intend to just have one or two with this friend, alcohol can weaken your will, no matter what you do. The positive expectation of good times with this friend can overwhelm you. Even if you see yourself as a social drinker, you may believe having a drink won’t hurt. This is not the time to experiment. Quitting is a process that requires patience in numerous ways. You are nearing your 30 days of abstinence. Challenge your self and your friend to an alcohol-free activity.