Understanding the Elevator Speech
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Familiarise yourself with the concept of an elevator speech—a concise and clear explanation that you can deliver in the time it takes for an elevator (lift in the UK) ride.
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Recognise the need for an elevator speech when declining offers of substances during your sober journey.
Crafting Your Response
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Develop a simple, classic, and direct line for declining offers, such as "No thanks, I don't drink," and gauge the response.
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Use humour, if appropriate, to deflect tension, especially when living in a culture associated with heavy drinking.
Elevator Speech Content
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If pressed, share that you used to drink but decided to quit as it interfered with your goals and life.
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Conclude with a positive note, emphasizing the significant improvement in your life without alcohol.
Opportunities for Support
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Recognise that your elevator speech can lead to meaningful interactions, possibly helping others seeking assistance.
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Be open to sharing your full story when approached by someone seeking support.
Lifelong Usage of Elevator Speech
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Accept that your elevator speech will be a recurring necessity throughout your life.
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Be prepared to gracefully decline offers even from well-meaning friends who may forget about your sobriety.
Cocaine Consideration
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Acknowledge that different substances may require different responses.
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Recognise that the simplicity of declining cocaine offers might spare you from elaborate explanations.
Anticipate Challenges
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Acknowledge potential scenarios where you might be offered substances, especially alcohol, and prepare for responses.
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Understand that alcohol, in particular, may be offered persistently, requiring a firm yet tactful response.
Adaptability
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Tailor your elevator speech based on the situation, the person offering substances, and your comfort level.
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Share details only if asked, and adapt the speech to the individual you are addressing.
Responses from Others
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Expect various reactions, from apologies to expressions of pity or curiosity.
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Embrace the opportunity for open debate and discussions about the pros and cons of sobriety.
Motivation Behind Sharing Your Story
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Understand that sharing your story is not about fame or profit but a genuine desire to help others based on personal experiences.
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Emphasise the simplicity of a man who transformed his life through sobriety and wishes to inspire others to do the same.
Contentment in Sobriety
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Embrace contentment with your sobriety, finding joy in politely declining offers without regret.
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Realise that as you grow more comfortable with your decision, others' apologies for offering substances become insignificant.
Watch the video on making your decision
This decision will be one of, if not the biggest, of your life. You need to make it for yourself, and you need to be 100 percent sure it’s what you want. If not, you will fail.