Dating is a nerve-wracking and anxiety driven activity. To make the sport even more stressful, many of us haven’t met new people for two years, leading to pandemic anxiety surging through our veins even confronting a cashier at the grocery store.

When exercising our dating muscle again, many of us may be tempted to rely on alcohol as a crutch to put those awkward and stressful feelings at bay. Although, what if you don’t want to drink?

Dru Jaeger, Author of How to Be a Mindful Drinker, has a few tricks up his sleeve to help you in your sober dating pursuits.

Plan a date where you’ll have fun without the alcohol

Dating doesn’t have to equal drinking. There are plenty of things you can do that are romantic and fun where consumption of alcohol isn’t involved, including food markets, a stroll in the park, or that new restaurant you want to check out. There are plenty of exciting adventures out there.

If you decide on a restaurant, a great tip is to look up the establishment’s menu ahead of time. This way, you can ensure there are non-alcoholic options you’re going to enjoy.

Choose representative images on your dating profile

That picture of yourself holding a cocktail may accentuate your features, but it doesn’t tell the story of who you are now. Try including pictures of yourself that are representative of your interests.

Remember, you don’t need to explain yourself

You don’t need to justify yourself, especially to someone you just met. If they’re judgmental of the fact that you don’t drink, it’s probably for the best you know now. Consider it a lucky escape!