The 6pm beer. For decades, one of the most common ways to unwind after a long day at work has been to relax with an ice cold bottle in your hand, either solo on the couch or with the family. 

And yet, the rise of zero-alcohol beers and “intermittent sobriety” has marked a distinct change in social attitudes over the last few decades. 

This concept of being “sober curious” has markedly increased in popularity over the last few years, with the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education reporting almost half of Australians wanting to cut out alcohol altogether. 

For many men, it’s not that they feel they have a dependence on alcohol. It might appear like they’re trying to solve a drinking problem, but really it’s taking the opportunity for self improvement and wellbeing.  Better sleep, heightened awareness, feeling healthier; these are all significant improvements that come from the simple act of halting those heavy weekend nights out, or even the occasional evening drink. For so many crucial benefits, you only have to reduce one thing – and it’s never been easier to do so. 

So what are the first steps you can take to meet the new, booze-free you?

Option Zero

With the consumer base for alcohol-free beverages growing every year, brewers are responding to the demand with zero alcohol options for their most popular drinks. Made for those of us who love the taste and feel of a drink in your hand, but without the sluggish side effects, these could be a fantastic option to satisfy that thirst for your favourites. If you’re someone who has been tossing up sobriety, either temporarily or for good, this might be a good tool to help you make some changes and achieve your goals. 

The Rise of Intermittent Sobriety

You might have heard of “dry january” or “dry july”. They’re a popular movement, only increasing in popularity, and serve as a fun challenge to get a glimpse of what an alcohol-free lifestyle might look like for you. Participating in these short sobriety challenges are a gamified way to take a break from booze, with plenty of room to invite like-minded friends or family to join you for the 31 days. Additionally, it’s often a way of fundraising for a charity of your choice, so you can make a difference while you try out the sober life. And, if you’re the competitive one in the family, there’s no better incentive than beating out the other participants!

Other methods of intermittent sobriety can also include designating drink-free days, or settling on having one sober month every year. This can be a good way to assess the impact of alcohol on your life without making too many big commitments. 

To new adventures

For many people, the most significant barrier impeding them from slowing down their drinking is their social life. Whether it’s catching a footy match or a monthly poker night, the truth is many of our social activities tend to revolve around consuming alcohol. While it may be easier said than done, try experimenting with new activities with your mates to take away some of the social drinking pressures that male social circles sometimes struggle with. Hiking, swimming, music clubs and more are all great ways to get together with friends without the expectation of drinking. 

If you’ve ever considered trying life without alcohol – whether to feel more aware, to set an example for your kids or just to switch things up – you should know that there’s many ways to ease in and make a small change. Remember, this isn’t about having a problem to fix but is a way to climb higher. 

There’s a reason the podcast Don’t Let the Old Man In resonates with thousands of men in their 50s. It speaks to the quiet war many fight against obsolescence, irrelevance, and a determination to navigate life’s crossroads with clarity and confidence. And likewise, if you’re reading this, you haven’t given up. You’re still curious. Maya Angelou once said, “If you’re always trying to be normal, you will never know how amazing you can be.” Midlife career change isn’t about being extraordinary. It’s about being aligned—with yourself.

Osh O’Sullivan is the Editor of the Don’t Let the Old Man In podcast. Listen on YouTube, Apple, Spotify or wherever you tune in. Find more thoughts on living gracefully (and disgracefully) in the second half of life at The Wisdom Vault, on LinkedIn, Substack and even (!) Instagram.