Just because alcohol is flowing freely at a singles event doesn’t mean you should drink it. There were many events over the holidays between Hanukkah and New Year’s Eve, which meant there was ample opportunity to drink too much and either make a fool of yourself or lower your inhibitions… or both.

If you fell prey to the bottle in the past, then it would be smart to have a friend with you who is on the same page at social events moving forward — both you and the friend should discuss how you will keep the drinking to a minimum and be responsible for each other. The reason this is important (aside from the obvious drunken debauchery) is that once you have a drink or two, it gets easier and easier to accept the offer of another drink… and another… and another. And then, once again, you’ll find yourself on the wrong side of a hangover.

Instead, decide before going to the event if you will drink and how much, and then stick to it. I know these singles events are tough (I remember them vividly), and I know that having a drink or two to relax is helpful for some people, but you don’t want to go overboard. You are attending these events for a reason, and that reason is to meet someone. Save the liquor for another night.