Networking

One of my biggest challenges in giving up alcohol has been how to deal with work or networking functions.

I go to ALOT of networking functions. I am a networking queen.

People will notice I’m not drinking. They might think I’m pregnant. No. Unlikely. I’m nearer menopause. They might think I’m menopausal. Or a recovering alcoholic. This isn’t good.

I have a networking lunch coming up next week. The wine will be good - that’s annoying. It’s a flat fee which will include the wine, that’s even more annoying. What’s with that?

What are my alternative drinking options? Should I call the restaurant beforehand and check what they have? I don’t want to be drinking sparkling water. I also don’t want to be drinking some sweet syrupy thing if we’re having a good piece of meat. That needs a wine match. Clearly. By a good sommelier. Will they even have a sommelier? Ok, STOP.

I’m overthinking this. 

How difficult can it be to go to one lunch and not drink any alcohol?

I drank sparkling water. It didn’t pair well with the medium rare kangaroo fillet.

I made some topical observations. I was witty and clever (completely subjective opinion of course). 

I didn’t make any commentary when the only other female at the lunch knocked over her glass of red wine all over the table and down her dress. 

I just gave a silent thanks it wasn’t me.