We all love a good night out - the music, the chat, the banter, the spontaneous dancing. But let’s be honest: navigating the scene whilst staying alcohol-free can be…well, an experience of an altogether completely different kind! If you’ve ever left a bar feeling like the most emotionally grounded person in a room full of philosophical karaoke crooners, this one’s for you.

When 'Just One More Drink' Becomes a Negotiation

You’ve made it to 11pm. You’ve laughed, you’ve danced, you’ve sipped your alcohol-free drink like the refined icon you are. And now? You’re ready for skincare and your weighted blanket.

But the group chat has other ideas.  “Stay! Just one more drink!”. Suddenly, your boundaries are on the bartering table, and tequila shots are the currency. Noooooo thank you - we’ve got satin pillowcases to get back to.

Always the Designated Driver (Even When You Didn’t Apply)

Let’s get one thing straight: choosing not to drink doesn't automatically come with a steering wheel. But somehow, saying no to alcohol means you’ve just become chauffeur, therapist and emergency snack coordinator at all once. Your car fills with friends, plus questionable leftovers from the chippie. Payment? A sweaty hug and half a packet of crisps.

The Deep Drunk Chats You Didn’t Ask For

There comes a moment in every sober night when someone leans in just that little bit too close, locks eyes, and says, “You’re actually… like, really wise” and proceed to share their entire romantic history, starting with a heartbreak in 2015. You nod, validate...and gently steer the conversation back toward nachos.

The FOMO That Turns Into JOMO

At first, you wonder if you’re missing out. Then you realise: your glass is still full, your dignity is intact and your shoes haven’t betrayed you. Fast forward to the morning - no regrets, no headache, and a crystal-clear memory of how Sharon ended up dancing with a barstool. That, friends, is JOMO: the Joy Of Missing Out.

Here’s to Drinking Differently (and Leaving When You Want To)

Being the sober one on a night out isn’t always easy, but it can be deeply rewarding (and honestly, hilarious). You’re not being a killjoy. You’re being ahead of the curve. So next time you feel like slipping out early with your clear-headed confidence, remember: you’re drinking alcohol-free and you've got better things to do than babysit pint number six.

What’s Your Sober Superpower?

Share your funniest or most relatable sober night-out moment @drinkimmaculate using #SoberChronicles. We’ll be sharing our favourites!