So one of things that I was taught in AA was to have an escape plan when I feel uncomfortable in a social setting. I feel that negates the purpose of trying to navigate socially sober.
I often talk about building sober muscles. No one starts lifting 300 lbs right away, You work up to that level of fitness and skill.
Having an escape plan, to me, doesn't negate anything.
Its ok to treasure your recovery, even protect it - especially in the early days.
Many times before I tried to 'road test' my recovery under very hard conditions...and sooner or later I drank again.
I was the 9 stone weakling trying to lift 300 lbs.
These days I know I won't drink - but I
still have an escape plan..for when things get boring being around drinkers.
Give it some thought
D