28/08/2026
FriYAY uplift: Friday drinks anyone? Alcohol became a social enabler for me a long time ago. Not that I realised at the time I was totally struggling with what’s now called social anxiety.
Introvert, super shy as a kid, didn’t find it easy to make friends. Finding myself in the swings London agency life in my twenties then a big corporate back in my home town, in my thirties.
I always worked hard but played hard too. Like most folks my age did back then. We’re talking pre 2007.
In some ways I was lucky alcohol was so popular back then as I fitted right in!
Such a revelation now I’ve done a lot of work on myself, become a mum (17 years on) and business owner (10 years on) , why it held such appeal back then.
This week social anxiety was on the agenda again with some of my leadership clients.
One of my (subconscious) strategies back then was to drink fast to relax and then feel less inhibited. Not a strategy I’d recommend!!
If you’re looking for more realistic coping mechanisms for your social anxiety or general anxiety or fear in your life, let’s talk.
Three helpful tips if you want to move away from alcohol but struggle socially:
Talk to another quiet person who looks anxious
Drink something sparkly like kombucha, or a soft drink.
If you feel the need to have alcohol - drink slowly. Especially if you’re nervous
Wishing you all a lovely weekend ahead pn both sides of the world - stay safe in windy Welly!
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Wellington based, experienced double certified leadership and life coach. Corporate trainer and workshop facilitator.
Talk to me about finding clarity, direction and confidence. Even if you struggle with challenges that seem permenent. Every session comes with a comprehensive action plan to help you or your team move forward in small successive steps. With a accountability buddy who understands the work first hand.
-anxiety