In the past decades, Indian corporate culture has gone through a drastic change with multinational companies and metropolitan offices taking up Western traditions, including the use of alcohol in the workplace in social events. From post-work drinks to special parties, drinking alcohol has been seen as a way to promote personal or business relationships or to relax after a busy day. With the wellness movement gaining attention, many are questioning whether it’s okay to consume alcohol in a corporate setting, especially in the Indian context.
Is this drinking culture actually beneficial or it’s time to rethink this tradition? Let’s find the pros and cons of corporate drinking culture and the benefits of quitting alcohol.
Post-work drinks or business parties usually become a place to meet people or make business contacts. It is believed that this type of relaxed atmosphere encourages open talks among corporate hierarchies and is beneficial to know the clients, attracting new projects or business opportunities.
In a corporate environment, generally, success is celebrated with alcohol. There are also customary celebrations when someone achieves a goal, motivating the rest of the employees to do their best. Alcohol may be seen as a part of the reward given to the employees on completion of business deals or project completion.
This can be a morale booster for some to perform better, especially those who see it as a reward, but regular encounters with alcohol may lead to one becoming an alcoholic. However, people are recognizing the benefits of quitting alcohol and living an alcohol-free life, typically those professionals who are health conscious.
Everyone may not drink perhaps due to religious, cultural, or personal reasons, especially in the Indian context. Though some may find alcohol tempting at social events, others may not feel it suitable due to their personal or spiritual choice. Those who abstain may feel alienated or excluded and face social pressure to go against their beliefs.
Companies need to recognize that employees who have opted to quit alcohol or are living a sober life may not feel tempted in such an environment where drinking alcohol is normal.
Alcoholism leads to various health issues, including high blood pressure, liver damage, and even mental health problems. Those who are trying to quit alcohol may find it difficult in a corporate setting where alcohol is seen as part of their normal business gathering.
The evenings that are spent drinking heavily can result in a reduced energy and productivity level the next day due to the impact of alcohol. Hangovers would cause one to have low energy levels, and concentration issues, and may also affect overall performance.
With the increasing awareness of health and wellness in India, many professionals are choosing to give hard drinks a skip. Companies that prioritize wellness don’t ban alcohol at their workplaces but are reducing it in professional environments.
In corporate offices, misconduct after excessive drinking of alcohol is a major concern. Under the influence of alcohol, professional boundaries may blur leading to unpleasant situations and may threaten a conducive environment to work, especially for women.
By adopting various ways companies can make a favorable environment to socialize without depending upon alcohol. Some of those are:
By offering several varieties of non-alcoholic beverages, companies can promote alcohol-free socializing. Coconut water, an array of juices, or mocktails are better options. Those, who abstain from drinking and also those who have opted to quit alcohol would be relieved from the pressure of drinking alcohol.
Companies can arrange wellness programs where all the professionals at different levels of hierarchies could participate, making it a meeting that’s free from alcohol. Fitness challenges along with meeting company targets can be motivating and foster a healthy environment. Events that are aimed at promoting health and wellness such as yoga retreats and healthy dinner nights can be planned by companies.
Companies can encourage their employees to quit drinking. By offering their support in various ways such as allowing absence for detoxification therapies, medical reimbursement of deaddiction medicines, and extending care facilities while going through withdrawal symptoms, companies can show social responsibility. These initiatives can nurture a healthier and more supportive environment, showing commitment towards their employees.
Corporate drinking culture has its pros and cons. Drinking sensibly can be an option, but it’s always wise to stop drinking alcohol. If you have been an alcoholic lately and decided to quit alcohol, you can enjoy the benefits of quitting alcohol within a few months, if you get yourself treated timely with de-addiction medicine. These medicines put a stop to relapses, curb cravings, and lessen withdrawal symptoms. If you are seeking natural remedies, Ayurvedic remedies for deaddiction are great ways to get yourself detoxified and de-addicted. Consult a physician if your symptoms get worse and require urgent medical attention.
