What type of Low No Drinker are you: Sober curious? Mindful drinker? Blender? Moderator? Grey Area?

Quiz Questions

• 1.
  1. How often do you find yourself reaching for an alcoholic beverage?

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  • A.
    Rarely. There's no point in drinking just for the sake of it.
  • B.
    Occassionally. I like a good quality drink but try not to overdo it.
  • C.
    I don't really know. I just have a drink if I feel like it.
  • D.
    Depends on what's going on in my life. Sometimes often, and sometimes not much at all.
  • E.
    Most days, it's just what you do, isn't it?
• 2.
  2. What's your approach to trying new alcoholic drinks?

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  • A.
    I'm not really interested in trying more booze, I already know what I like.
  • B.
    I like to try new drink experiences and see how they'll make me feel.
  • C.
    I'll try something new in the right environment, but not just for the sake of it.
  • D.
    I'm always keen to try new drinks. You never know when you'll find a new favourite.
  • E.
    I'll drink anything, bring it on.
• 3.
  3. How do you feel about the idea of reducing your alcohol intake?

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  • A.
    I take breaks when I need them.
  • B.
    Curious, I'm open to exploring low/no alternatives.
  • C.
    Not interested, I enjoy drinking on social occasions and I'm happy with how much I drink.
  • D.
    Very open to it. I've already started experimenting with cutting back.
  • E.
    I could do with a booze break, but I'm not sure how long it would last.
• 4.
  4. What's your reaction to waking up after a night of heavy drinking?

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  • A.
    Regretful. It ruins my week and I wish I hadn't done it.
  • B.
    Frustrated with myself for not stopping when I said I would.
  • C.
    Ropey but I had a great night.
  • D.
    A bit worse for wear but I can live with my choices.
  • E.
    Oh my god, what the hell happened last night?
• 5.
  5. When it comes to alcohol, how do you navigate peer pressure?

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  • A.
    I stay true to my values, regardless of what people are doing around me.
  • B.
    I'm assertive about my decisions, whether I'm drinking or not, and I don't let peer pressure sway me.
  • C.
    It's hard to say no so I should probably just leave.
  • D.
    It's not really peer pressure, I enjoy being socialble.
  • E.
    I am the peer pressure.
• 6.
  6. What's your approach to alcohol consumption at home?

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  • A.
    I'd rather have a cuppa.
  • B.
    I can take it or leave it at home but there's always a few bottles around in case I fancy one.
  • C.
    I sometimes have a drink at home with my housemate/partner but not usually on my own.
  • D.
    I love making cocktails or trying new beers/wines in the comfort of my own living room.
  • E.
    Home is the easiest place to drink, the bar never closes.
• 7.
  7. How do you feel about the idea of attending social events without drinking?

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  • A.
    I don't mind as long as there is still something nice to enjoy.
  • B.
    Doesn't bother me, the company is more important.
  • C.
    Ocassionally it's ok, but I might go for a drink afterwards.
  • D.
    I'd prefer if there were drinks and probably won't go/won't stay for very long.
  • E.
    What's the point in that?
• 8.
  8. What's your attitude towards trying low or no-alcohol alternatives?

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  • A.
    Love them, they make all the difference.
  • B.
    They're good for when I need to take a break but not all the time.
  • C.
    I'm definitely open to exploring low/no drinks. It would be good to find some that I like.
  • D.
    They have their place but I wouldn't drink them all night.
  • E.
    I don't really drink them but I probably should.

Quiz Outcomes

• 1.
  You're a Dolphin, aka sober curious

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  You enjoy a drink and have had great times (and not-so-great times) on the booze in the past, but now you're ready to explore a life less intoxicated. You've come to the realisation that today's parties are taking a greater toll than they once were, and damn it, you've got things to do!Dolphins are intelligent, inquisitive, sociable animals, and just like the dolphin, you're ready to investigate what's around the next coral reef and see if it can provide you a better life than the patch of ocean you're swimming in right now.You're curious about new experiences and how you can enjoy them with less booze, and while you may not be 100% ready to ditch the grog, you are open to the possibility - you've begun questioning if alcohol is still serving you and what role, if any, it should have in your life in the future.Yes, being sociable and living a full life are important to you, and you may be worried about how kicking booze to the curb will impact your social life. But you've likely dipped your toes into the water with a few sober events and found that they actually have just as much to offer as the usual shot-fuelled chaos of an average night out. Plus, you're starting to really appreciate waking up hangover-free and ready to take on whatever swims your way.By exploring a sober curious lifestyle you are choosing to prioritise your own physical and mental health and well-being, which can only be a good thing. You've made a choice to improve your life, and while it may sometimes present challenges, by keeping a clear head, you'll be in a much better position to face those trials head-on.A SOBER CURIOUS LIFESTYLE CAN HELP YOU FEEL...Empowered and self-confident: By making mindful choices about your drinking habits, you regain control over your life and present yourself confidently in any situation. No more embarrassing brain-fog in the middle of the Monday morning meeting!Physically & mentally rejuvenated:As your body detoxifies from alcohol, you'll experience increased energy, better sleep and reduced anxiety, allowing you to tackle challenges with vitality and put more emphasis on self-care.Smug AF:As all your mates complain about being hungover to hell while you're off to enjoy life at full swim!CHALLENGES:Peer pressureDolphins are sociable creatures, and any socialised animal wants to be accepted by the pod, so you may sometimes feel pressured to conform and submit to what those around you want. Until you make a declaration that you are fully sober (if that's your goal), others may see it as their place to try to bring you back to your old ways (it's not!).You don't have to be aiming for complete sobriety to consider yourself sober curious, so it's important to remain steadfast in your commitment to yourself, whatever you've decided when it comes to drinking.Set-backsIt may be tempting to feel that you've failed or have to 'start again' if you do end up having a few too many drinks on a night out (or a night in), but remember that being 'sober curious' is not the same as being 'sober' or 'in recovery'. You're free to choose to do what you want when it comes to drinking, and the only standards you need to adhere to are the ones that align with your life principles and long-term goals.If your drinking habits start to go against those, you'll soon be giving yourself a rude awakening and can re-set your path to achieve the life you truly want.TriggersIf you are on a sober curious path because you want to ultimately remove alcohol from your life altogether (remember that's your choice, and there are no rules or expectations to being sober curious), then be aware that certain times, people and places, may trigger your desire to fall back into old habits, so it's important that you provide yourself with a toolkit of tactics to fall back on when you need them: quit-lit, podcasts, Facebook groups, a good friend and journaling are just a few suggestions that have worked well for others.If all else fails, take yourself off to your happy place and treat yourself to something decadent that doesn't revolve around booze and pat yourself on the back for trying to achieve something that most people are too afraid to even attempt!0% DRINKS FOR DOLPHINS TO TRYBeer: Days Brewing Lager & Pale Ale (0.0%)Wine: Oddbird Spumante (0.0%)Spirits: Lyre's non-alcoholic spirits (0.0%)Something different: Bemuse Alcohol-Free Meads (0.0%)WHAT NEXT?Dolphins are constantly exploring and learning. They are open to new information and want to absorb all they can. You can learn more about the people, places and brands leading the low-and-no-alcohol revolution by subscribing to Low No Drinker Magazine online or in print, listening to the podcast on your favourite player or watching on YouTube.(*Some links may be affiliate links and s an affiliate partner Low No Drinker may earn from qualifying purchases)
• 2.
  You're a Tortoise, aka a Mindful Drinker

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  Everyone knows the story of the tortoise and the hare, and in this tale of mindful drinking, you are 100% the winner, because you, my friend, are running your own race, and you don't give a crispy lettuce leaf what anyone else thinks!Tortoises are purposeful, steadfast, patient, and thoughtful. And as a mindful drinker, that's precisely where your superpowers lay. You approach alcohol with intention and awareness, savouring each sip and enjoying the experience without overindulging. You understand the importance of moderation and strive to maintain a healthy balance between enjoying a drink and taking care of yourself.For you, drinking isn't just about getting buzzed—it's about appreciating the flavours, aromas, and company you're in. You're the type of person who knows when to say when, listens to your body's cues and respects your limits.The tortoise isn't opposed to having a full-strength drink occasionally, but it has to be worth it. Gone are the days of chugging White Lightning, Newcastle Brown Ale and Blue Nun (oh, what a selection!) just to have something to pour down your neck. Now if you choose to imbibe, it's on your terms and most certainly to a higher standard, prioritizing quality over quantity and meaningful interactions over mindless consumption.You're adaptable, too (you don't get to live to be 150 years old without learning how to accommodate change). You can seamlessly switch between alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages depending on the situation and your mood. Whether it's a fancy cocktail at a party or a refreshing AF cocktail at brunch, you know how to enjoy yourself while staying true to your values.As alcohol becomes less and less prevalent in your life, you're becoming more open to the possibilities that come with a lifeless intoxicated.A MINDFUL DRINKING LIFESTYLE CAN HELP YOU FEEL...Secure:As you become more aware of your limits and how to live a full life within them, you no longer put your health or well-being at risk.Present:As you practice mindfulness of your drinking habits and how your body and mind react to each sip, you'll become more self-aware in every instant, never missing out on life's big moments.Confident:Knowing you have the self-restraint to walk away at the right time and protect yourself from your own bad decisions will leave you brimming with more confidence all around.CHALLENGESThe tipping point:Alcohol, by its very nature, diminishes your ability to make wise and informed choices. Being a mindful drinker will only serve you as long as your mind remains unencumbered by the effects of the very thing you're being mindful of. You'll have a limit, a cut-off point where mindfulness is replaced by mindless habits. Your biggest challenge will be identifying when you're about to reach the tipping point and making a swift exit in time.Overconfidence:Once you've successfully experienced a few nights out practising a mindful approach to drinking, it may be tempting to think you've cracked this booze lark and don't need to think about it anymore. Sorry, but not quite. The wise tortoise knows that longevity requires vigilance. If this is a path you choose to tread, you need to do so with your eyes wide open so you know when danger is approaching and it's time to retreat to the safety of your rock-hard shell.LOW/NO DRINKS FOR TORTOISES TO TRYBeer: Brewdog Alcohol Free Mixed Pack (0.5%)Wine: Not Guilty Red, White & Rosé Wines (0.5%)Spirits: Feragaia Free-Spirit (0.0%)Something different: Mother Root Ginger Switchel Aperitif (0.0%)WHAT NEXT?Tortoises are some of the oldest living creatures on the planet, and we all know that with age comes wisdom. Take some time out for yourself and put your feet up, and get wise about the people, places and brands leading the low-and-no-alcohol revolution by subscribing to Low No Drinker Magazine online or in print, listening to the podcast on your favourite player or watching on YouTube.(*Some links may be affiliate links and s an affiliate partner Low No Drinker may earn from qualifying purchases)
• 3.
  You're an Elephant, aka a moderator

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  Elephants are known for many traits, not least of which is their memory. Like the elephant, you never forget the good times you've had with a drink in hand, but you're also well aware of the bad times, and that's why you choose to temper your drinking with regular time off the sauce (sometimes just a few days, sometimes a few weeks or even longer).To do this successfully, just like the majestic elephant, you embody strength, resilience, and wisdom in your approach. Learning from past transgressions and applying that to future outings serves you well in giving you that 'best of both worlds' vibe you're going for in life. But that doesn't mean it's easy!Elephants are highly social animals, and being among your herd can easily lead to mob rule. Empower your inner elephant, stand firm in your choices and remind your crowd that for the times when you're stepping away from the booze, NO MEANS NO!As a Moderator, you bring a sense of groundedness and stability to your drinking habits. By choosing a life of moderation, you lead by example, showing others in your herd the importance of self-discipline and respect for your own limits, and that can have a greater impact on your friends and family than you realise.Moderators find empowerment in making conscious choices about their drinking habits. By staying mindful and aware of their limits, they avoid the pitfalls of repetitive excessive drinking and maintain a sense of control over their lives. They recognise that moderation is not about deprivation but rather about prioritising well-being and longevity.A MODERATOR LIFESTYLE CAN HELP YOU FEEL...GroundedWith your self-discipline and moderation, you maintain a sense of stability and control in your drinking habits.EmpoweredMaking informed choices and respecting your limits leaves you feeling confident and empowered in all aspects of your life.SocialYour ability to navigate social situations with grace and moderation fosters deeper connections and meaningful interactions.CHALLENGESSocial PressureAs a Moderator, you may encounter social situations where others encourage excessive drinking or question your choices. It's important to stay true to yourself and communicate your boundaries confidently. Surround yourself with supportive friends and seek out alcohol-free activities to enjoy together.Constant monitoringSetting strict rules and restrictions around alcohol can be extremely hard for some people, and doing so puts thoughts of drinking (or not drinking) front and centre far more than other lifestyle choices. If you find thta you're constantly counting down the days to your next permitted drink then moderation might not be serving you as well as you'd like. Instead of white-knuckling your way through a period of enforced abstinence, try to focus on positive alternatives you can introduce instead. Remember the mantra 'Don't remove, replace', and you'll be on the right path.LOW/NO DRINKS FOR ELEPHANTS TO TRYBeer: Lucky Saint Lager & Ipa (0.5%)Wine: Wednesday's Domaine Sanguine (0.5%)Spirits: Mahala Botanical Spirits (0.0%)Something different: L.A Brewery Kombucha (0.3%)WHAT NEXT?Elephants never stop learning. You can learn more about the people, places and brands leading the low-and-no-alcohol revolution by subscribing to Low No Drinker Magazine online or in print, listening to the podcast on your favourite player or watching on YouTube.(*Some links may be affiliate links and s an affiliate partner Low No Drinker may earn from qualifying purchases)
• 4.
  You're an Octopus, aka a Blender

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  Just like the adaptable and quick-witted octopus, you're open to holding different opinions and approaches to your drinking. With your ability to seamlessly switch between alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages in the same session, you navigate the complexities of blending with relative ease (it's all relative right!).Octopuses are known for their flexibility and versatility, traits that perfectly align with your approach to drinking. As a Blender, you embrace diversity and variety in your drinking habits. Whether enjoying a fancy cocktail at a party or sipping on a refreshing AF cocktail at brunch, you know how to enjoy yourself while staying true to your values.As a Blender, you bring a sense of dynamic energy to your drinking experiences. Like the octopus's chameleonic ability to adapt to changing environments, you thrive in diverse settings and enjoy exploring different options. You appreciate the richness of a variety of drinking experiences and find joy in embracing the best of both worlds.Blenders find empowerment in their ability to navigate the complex areas of drinking with confidence and (again, relative) ease. You recognise that life is full of choices and embrace the freedom to explore and experiment with different options. By staying open-minded and adaptable, you maintain balance and well-being in your drinking habits.A BLENDER LIFESTYLE CAN HELP YOU FEEL...DynamicBy embracing the best of both worlds, you enjoy the variety and excitement that comes with blending different drinks and experiences.InclusiveYour open-mindedness and willingness to explore new options make you a welcoming presence in any social setting, allowing others around you to feel comfortable and accepted no matter their choices.BalancedBy finding harmony between alcoholic and non-alcoholic choices, you maintain balance and well-being in your drinking habits.CHALLENGESDecision FatigueWith so many options available, it can be overwhelming to constantly have to make choices about what to drink in different situations. Remember to trust your instincts and listen to your body's cues. Don't be afraid to experiment and try new things, but also recognise when it's time to stick to familiar favourites or just have a break from it all.Social ExpectationsOthers may not always understand or respect your choices to blend alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Stay true to yourself and communicate your preferences confidently. Surround yourself with supportive friends who respect your decisions and embrace your unique approach to drinking.Maintaining balanceIt can be challenging to strike a balance between enjoying alcoholic beverages and incorporating non-alcoholic options into your lifestyle. Keep track of your consumption and listen to your body's signals. Practice moderation and be mindful of your limits to ensure a healthy and balanced approach to drinking.LOW/NO DRINKS FOR OCTOPUSES TO TRYBeer: Small Beer (2.5%)Wine: Sevenly by SJP (7%)Spirits: Crossip Dandy Smoke (0.0%)Something different: Citizen Spritz (0.0%)WHAT NEXT?For a balanced look at a life less intoxicated and all the wonderful options open to you as a drinker of no- low- and lower-alcohol drinks, visit Low No Drinker Magazine where you can learn more about the people, places and brands leading the low-and-no-alcohol revolution by subscribing to Low No Drinker Magazine online or in print, listening to the podcast on your favourite player or watching on YouTube.(*Some links may be affiliate links and s an affiliate partner Low No Drinker may earn from qualifying purchases)
• 5.
  You're a Wolf, aka a Grey Area Drinker 

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  Like the versatile and opportunistic wolf, you navigate the complexities of your drinking habits with stealth and resilience, but you know that sometimes you'll have a fight on your hands exploring the nuances and uncertainties that define your relationship with alcohol.The often misunderstood wolf is a survivor! They hunt and adapt to their environments with great skill but sometimes find themselves alone. Grey area drinkers may drink sociably at first, but as the party quiets down, they adapt to another environment that facilitates their desires - be that in a crowd or solo.Conversely, your grey area habits may manifest as more routine daily drinking that's not quite enough to cause major concern, but it's causing you to think twice, and that's reason enough to question it.Grey area drinkers like yourself often find themselves caught between the traditional categories of moderate drinking and problematic drinking. You may experience periods of heavy drinking interspersed with periods of abstinence or moderation, questioning where you fit into the spectrum of drinking habits.As a Grey Area Drinker, you bring a sense of resilience and determination to your journey. Like the wolf's ability to adjust to changing environments, you navigate the ups and downs of drinking with agility and adaptability. You're not afraid to explore the complexities and uncertainties of the grey area, seeking to understand your habits and motivations with authenticity and curiosity. And when you do choose to moderate, drink more mindfully or explore a sober curious path, you may surprise yourself at just how spirited (pun intended) you can be about it.Grey area drinkers recognise that life is full of light and shade and that out of those shades of grey, you can embrace the freedom to define what a life less intoxicated means to you on your own terms. A GREY AREA LIFESTYLE CAN LEAVE YOU FEELING...HopefulThings may not be as you wish them to be right now, but you are here, you've taken a step in the right direction, and that shows you've reached a stage of self-awareness that gives you the opportunity to make the changes you want for yourself before you fall further into the darker shades.ResilientYour ability to navigate the uncertainties of the grey area with resilience and determination strengthens your sense of self and purpose, strengthening your resolve to put your well-being first.AuthenticBy staying true to yourself and your values, you define what a life less intoxicated means to you on your own terms. Whether your choices lead you to mindful drinking, sober curiosity, or full abstinence, you can design your life on your terms.CHALLENGESNavigating uncertaintyGrey area drinkers often grapple with uncertainty and ambivalence about their drinking habits. It's important to explore these feelings with curiosity and compassion, seeking support from loved ones or professional resources if needed. Managing TriggersCertain times, people, and places may trigger your desire to fall back into negative drinking habits. Develop coping strategies to navigate these triggers effectively, whether it's practising mindfulness, seeking support from peers, finding alternative ways to cope with stress or removing yourself from tempting situations until you're in a stronger place.Defining BoundariesGrey area drinking can blur the lines between moderation and excess, making it challenging to define clear boundaries. Take the time to reflect on your values, priorities, and goals, and set boundaries that align with your vision for a balanced and fulfilling life.LOW/NO DRINKS FOR WOLVES TO TRYBeer: Guinness 0.0 (0.0%)Wine: Noughty Alcohol-Free Wines (0.5%)Spirits: Sentia Gaba Red & Black (0.0%)Something different: Caleño Pina Colada (0.5%)WHAT NEXT?As a grey area wolf, it's essential to be mindful of the tools and resources at your disposal to help you navigate a life less intoxicated and to know, most of all, that you are not alone. Low No Drinker Magazine is full of readers' stories, interviews and lifestyle features to help you live a life by design. You can learn more about the people, places and brands leading the low-and-no-alcohol revolution by subscribing to Low No Drinker Magazine online or in print, listening to the podcast on your favourite player or watching on YouTube.(*Some links may be affiliate links and s an affiliate partner Low No Drinker may earn from qualifying purchases)