ANSWERS: 79
  • If you have already made it to 17 with out touching any of them then you are doing really well and obviously have a good head on your shoulders. People can go out and have a good time without drugs or alcohol. i dont think you are in for social issues your still going to have friends arnt you. keep up the good work dont fall for peerpressure.
  • No coffee! Oh man, I'd be a wreck without my coffee or tea in the am!
  • No offense, but, people who never do anything like that are usually warped to a degree in other ways. And, warped is often not boring at all. So...as long as you aren't secret about how warped you are, people probably won't find you to be boring.
  • In my experience, people who are "hung up" on these things are the ones that are boring. To always need your cup of coffee, and have to be drunk or you can't have fun, is just no fun. I believe the majority of people do not use the substances you have listed. It is my experience based on my years of being an event organizer/hostess. I attended hundreds of social and business events.
  • I am in my early 40's and quit smoking and drinking a few years back for health reasons. I REALLY cut back on coffee (down to maybe a cup a month). My friends understand why and have been great about it. No problems there. Now I am sorry to say that here is what you are in for. You will get looks from some like there is something wrong with you. You will get looks from some wondering if it is a religious thing. You will have the occasional person who will say "come on, just try it". There will be times where you will feel out of place. You will end up as the "designated driver" for the rest of your life, but take it as a complement of trust. You will have people ask "if you don't mind my asking, why" and explain your reasons. You'll learn who your real friends are. You will live a healthier life. You won't make a fool of yourself as often (but you will, come on, we've all made fools of ourselves sober). The older you get, the more respect you will get for your choice. There is nothing boring about it. You are going to be in for a fair amount of pressure and perhaps even some mocking and ridicule, but stick to your views. Enjoy life!
  • Many people will actually find that very cool as long as you don't condemn others for indulging in those things.
  • I think you sound like a very sensible person. Don't worry about what others say or do or think. Stick to what you believe in, and do what you believe is right.
  • wow.......... I REALY pitty you man, you will never know what fun is i don't give a dam about coffee it tastes like ass, but no dope/alcohol, im sorry man but have fun being the designated driver the rest of your life.
  • you shouldnt rule out coffee. what about hot chocolate? and cold pepsi, and or a cold brewsky. You will probably have a nervous breakdown when you realize you are doing many of the things listed here that you say wont do.
  • I have a 40 y.o. friend who does not and never has used any of the items you mention. He's not boring at all. He isn't judgemental though.
  • You might be in for some awkwardness, but if people want to make it awkward for you, well screw them, don't even waste your time on that B.S. That being said, although I commend you for renouncing drugs and alchohol so casually, but I think it immensely unwise to get too committed to the idea of abstaining from them, esepecially if your standards include anything as light as coffee. In other words, if you actually *Do* make it your whole life without ever feeling any desire to smoke, do drugs, drink alchohol or coffee, good for you I suppose. But it's unrealistic to try to abstain from all those things completely, and I would reccomend trying something at least once before you decide you're absolutely never going to do it, because close to no one goes their entire life without getting a little curious, and curiosity (in moderation) is perfectly healthy.
  • Honey, you do what's right for you and you'll be okay. As for the social issues and being boring that will be the other person's problem, not yours. I think as you get older this would become less of an issue with people then when you aree young and all your friends are trying to talk you into it.
  • There is nothing wrong with that choice. I'm not into those things, either.
  • I don't think you'll have any problems--just don't make a big deal out of it or try to force your lifestyle on others.
  • I made the same decision, and I have never regreted it...I don't need coffee because I am used to going without it. And well, nobody "needs" to drink or smoke. It may cause people to look at you weird, but that's something you'll have to learn to deal with early on - it shouldn't bother you forever, if that's what you're wondering. Then again, it depends how strong you are. I don't care at all if people think I'm weird, because I don't conform to other people's standards. Some however, have a hard time getting past this need to satisfy others...
  • Let me tell you something that might make you feel more secure in your decisions. See those two guys in the picture? They have never smoked, drank, or done drugs in their entire lives. Do you think people found them boring?
  • my best friend vowed to do that at 8 years old when her brother died in a drunk driving accident. she just turned 21 and even tho our friends tried and tried to get her to buy her own drink she wouldnt do it. she is more fun than anyone i know without being intoxicated. i think you are making a GREAT decision just remember to stick to it and dont give in to peer pressure
  • You are perfect. Don't let yourself be trapped in those unhealthy habit. As coffee and a little wine according to studies these things have more advantages than destructive things, you can be a litle bit flexible. I support your decision.
  • Personally, I do find that boring, but you have a perfect right to eat or drink whatever suits you. I wouldn't even consider dating or living with a gf with such strict preferences, unless she had a bizarre medical condition. To each his own. Is this a church thing? If so, I hope you can get help.
  • It depends on the people you surround yourself with on the social issues part. I'm a drinker and I have friends who don't touch the stuff. It doesn't bother me any and they are cool people regardless of what they do or do not ingest. I wouldn't call them boring by any means.
  • Its your life & your decision that you have to live with & there is nothing wrong for standing up for what you believe in & sticking to it. Like someone said earlier with Gene Simmons & Paul Stanly they don't do it either & Ted Nuggent is another I can think of that don't do any of that & I don't think any of them have any regrets for not doing it. Its every man to their own & we are responsible for the choices we make in our lives & there's nothing to be ashamed of if you don't want to choose the things that can harm you. Just don't try & condemn those who do because they to have to live with their choices.
  • Good for you! You don't "need" it. Most adults don't bother monitoring what other adults are or are not drinking. Whether or not you are "boring" has little to do with alcohol, although some drunks are highly amusing. You should google "funny drunks" on youtube. :D
  • You'll be fine so long as you don't become preachy about your stance in social situations. You'll probably given a hard time until you and your peers reach their mid 20s. Before that age, most people still really aren't comfortable with themselves and rely more on following trends and eachother rather than being their own person. For them, drinking is simply the 'adult' thing to do, something to make them feel grown up (if not rebelious). The thing about coffee is that studies have shown that people who drink it on a regular basis build up a tolerance and an addiction. The 'jolt' they get from drinking it is only the effects of the caffine staving off the withdrawl symptoms
  • Why would you narrow your mind to such a degree? While I am not for abuse of those items, a lot of people find enjoyment in their use thru moderation. --- You should at least try them,(not the illegal drugs), but I cannot understand why it has to be all one way or all another. Moderation is the key.
  • Just looked down on other people who choice too.
  • Albeit, I think you're being naively supercilious and that you're awfully young to think that you will never even try any of those substances, who knows. maybe you'll succeed. It shouldn't be awkward. It's only awkward if the people you're with can't respect your choices. In which case, tell them to fuck off. :) in nicer words, probably, but still. friends should respect what your views are, no matter how naive they might be.... Sorry to sound condescending, I just think that's an awfully big proclamation to make when you haven't really had much experience yet.
  • Don't be so sure, my child...Never is a very long time...check in again when you're 47...
  • I think that is your choice. The Harvard School of Public Health and many other reputable organizations recognize that moderate alcohol consumption (like a glass of wine with dinner)can have health benefits, like reduced chance of heart attack, but they don't feel that it is vital to good health. If you want to be a part of social events that will include these things, spend some time finding alternatives that you like, so that you don't get excluded from parties and coffee outings. If you have "your" drink to order, (for instance herbal tea with soy milk) at the coffee place, and ginger ale with cranberry juice at a bar, you can be in the group without drinking things that you don't want to. http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/what-should-you-eat/pyramid/
  • No I don't think it will make you boring. I would find it interesting.
  • I think its totally cool that you wish to try and live a life that is chemical free. many people become dependent on chemicals for a variety of reasons but because some substance use is more socially acceptable than others, no one thinks much about it. I've got alot of respect for people who do not wish to rely on things such as alcohol or drugs to have a good time or to distract themselves from whatever issues they have in life. Not to say it isn't possible to drink or do drugs casually. It is possible to be responsible with this sort of thing. The only thing that I would warn you about is that many people who choose to abstain develop a sort of condescending attitude towards those who don't do the same. Don't be that guy/girl.
  • I think its great. If people find it boring then they need some help. I myself am 19.. i have done drugs and drank in the past. i dont do any of that now. no drugs, no smoking, no coffee, i have a drink now and then but i dont base my nights on "going out and drinking" i think its fine. i dont think anyone i hang around with has a problem with it and if they do i certainly wouldnt care.
  • That's a great choice. As long as you are truly having a good time without them, more power to you. I wish I would have made that choice!
  • ha we'll see...
  • Not at all. I know people who don't do any of the things you mention, except they do drink coffee, and it really doesn't matter to anyone. If you're at a party, there is always soda, tea, etc. No one will find you boring, it's not what people drink that make them interesting, it's their personality. Good for you for wanting to stay off drugs and not get into drinking. Lots of 17 year old kids ruin their lives with these things.
  • Yeah, you sound boring as hell. Of course, I suppose you'd fit right in with the mormons. Look, it's your life, you should live it the way you want. Just don't expect normal people to associate with you. Not doing ANYTHING will make other people feel self-conscious, and nobody likes that. Amazing convictions to have at 17. Glad you have everything figured out. And I hope you have a long, healthy life because of it. Far, far, away from me and my "sacramental vodka" Cheers! I mean, uh...hmm...want some gum?
  • You might find it boring yourself if you go out with others who ARE drinking. I drink, but there were occasions in the past where I have been working on a Saturday and friends have been in the pub all day, so when I joined them they were already drunk. There are things that are HILARIOUS to someone who is drunk, but only vaguely ammusing when you are sober, so I would feel a bit left out of the fun until I caught up a couple of hours later, and you might have this problem all night if you socialise with people who do drink.
  • Well I do, and I probably wouldn't hang out with you, but on the other hand I do smoke and I drink etc, so you probably wouldn't want to associate with me. It doesn't mean either of us are boring or bad or wrong just different. You won't have as many issues as you think, you will just associate with people that are similar to you.
  • My mother is the same! and that's not a bad thing as she is the life and soul of many parties. She is always laughing and having fun, we often question what people put in her orange juice. Boring is not about what you don't do, being interesting and fun is all about what you do and how you come across. If you are fun to be round I wouldn't have an issue with not drinking....you can drive!
  • I think you will be. I dabbled with smoking, drinking and some drugs, but stopped all of that more than 10 years ago. Now I don't drink, smoke, etc. at all. I think most people are pretty boring. They use drinking to fill the time. If you don't, they will wonder what you could possibley do to make life interesting. Don't change for them.
  • A friend of mine is the same, She gets a gentle ribbing every once in a while, at parties ect, but we respect her decision. She's fun, ditzy and the world cumbsiest person, so it's probably a good thing she doesn't drink :). You don't have to drink to have fun, watching all the drunkards making themselves look like arses is fun and being able to remember it, (and mock them) is nice as well!
  • Depends. If U r going to work in the Merc and the NYMEX(Basically serious businness) u better get in touch with ur "inner animal". It's a jungle out there and in rome do as they do. Getting drunk together is a form of bonding and will certainly burgeon u to a right start and u can pick up alot of invaluable info along the way(learning the ropes). ;)
  • Do what you want to do and screw what everyone else thinks!
  • Sorry, why not? Do you not want to live? Only joking. Kind of. But seriously, what's wrong with coffee? Up to you. You can always go places and not drink. And drink tea. Sorted.
  • ur decision i not just ok but good keep it up!
  • No - I'm in my early 50s and I have never smoked, done drugs, drank coffee or tea, and I rarely have had any alcoholic drinks. It has never been a problem for me other than a slight inconvenience after we moved to Texas - only because when we go to large social gatherings for dinner, they often offer only tea or coffee and water.
  • No problem. I was the same way at seventeen and I still am now, well into middle age, at least with respect to alcohol, drugs and cigarettes. I've always had as much fun as everyone else, but I sleep better that night, as I'm not bowing to the porcelain god. I never did understand why you have to puke to have fun. Now coffee is another story. There are some benefits to coffee too, not the least of which is that its a natural bronchodilator, which for an asthmatic is a big plus.
  • You will be in a small niche of people. You may not be appealing to some other people depends with who you hang out with and who you make friends with.
  • I would say it depends why you are doing it. I think making any decision like that when you are 17 is not really based in much other than some dogma or other. I don't mean to be offensive, but, really, why make that decision now? It leads not to, "no thanks, I don't feel like drinking wine tonight", which most everyone will feel is inoffensive to being branded as someone who has a "stance", a solid "position" on smoking/drugs/alcohol. From that "stance" you will be seen as judging and disproving, which will lead to people being defensive, and to treating you differently.
  • What I've learned is, if you're confident in your decisions; others will be too. People may try to talk you into doing all that stuff, but if you just tell them no they won't have a problem with it. I'm glad you are thinking things through and putting your own standards in place. There are too many people who just go along with anyone who is around them at the time. Good job.
  • I'd find it kind of depressing. When you get married, no celebratory glass of champagne. When you have a child, no cigars. On a cold winter morning, no warm coffee. No cold beers on a warm summer afternoon. There's just so much that you will miss out on, and I fear it's for all the wrong reasons. You hear horror stories that people who start smoking/drinking and they get addicted, but they are the minority. Just like with everything in life, moderation is the key. But to each their own. I personally wouldn't find you boring, just depressing.
  • I applaude you for your stand against these things! Who cares what others think? Tell them straight up you believe in a healthy life-style and you do what's best for your body. If they find it boring, tell them to just IMAGINE that your sparkling water is actually vodka and tonic if it makes them feel better!! :D
  • I think that's awesome that u would choose that. I don't drink/smoke/do drugs at all either. Some people do find it boring, yes, but seriously, the people that actually care about things like that aren't even worth ur time. I'm 27 now & all alcohol ever did 4 me was make me stupid & get me in trouble when I was younger.
  • Well, I just wouldn't grasp it too hard, so you don't kick yourself for all eternity when someone absentmindedly hands you something you're not supposed to have. I don't find it boring, I just find it odd. I mean, I think the american student "wooo, let's get drunk!" attitude is weird and furthermore dangerous, but the idea of going "I just don't think I need it" and from there saying "I'll never have it not ever" instead of continuing with "I don't need it" strikes me as off. I mean, I don't "need" coffee or alcohol either, but I'm not opposed to them or anything. *shrug* If I'm cold and hot coffee is available, I'll have coffee; if I'd like to have a little bailey's in my hot chocolate, I don't see what's wrong. And I guess that's the sticking point -- you going "I don't need it" and saying you'll never ever have it is going to have people assuming you think they're wrong for their choices.
  • Good for you! Be yourself. Boring? I don't think so.
  • not doing stuff like that doesnt make you boring. ive had a lot of fun times sober. but im not gonna lie. ive had a lot of fun times unsober.
  • I'm 31. Never smoked, no drugs, don't like coffee or alcohol. Any social issues are up to you. Do you want to hang out with the drinking crowd or the smokers? Do YOU feel that non-smokers are boring? Make friends with people that fit your lifestyle. There are lots of exciting things to do that smoking and alcohol can get in the way of. Besides, you'll be happier with people you don't have to defend yourself against.
  • If doesn't matter what other people think and you may already be above the maturity level of people twice your age.
  • No not at all. Yes, you will run into people who will think it is "weird" that you don't do all those stuff, but that doesn't mean you are boring. It just shows that they are narrow minded.. You don't need to drink or smoke to be a fun person!
  • It's alright. Don't worry about it. I'm 19. I have never even touched drugs. I've never smoked. I've never knowingly drank alcohol. I'm not a coffee drinker. I don't drink wine at special occasions. I'm doing fine. You're right. You don't need it. I know I don't.
  • Yeah I said that too... The best laid plans... You know? I hope you never do. It is a bitch to stop vices once they take charge.
  • You could have social issues because of it, but it really depends on who you choose to socialize with. My sister is Mormon and the religion forbids all of those things. She never gets any grief over it. I don't even think most people notice that she always has a lemonade when going out and doesn't do any 'bad' things.
  • You might have some issues as you go through college. Stick with it man, and after that it will be no problem at all. People might ask you why you refrain, but people shouldn't judge you about it...not boring at all.
  • Like most people here, I agree that it isn't even a question of boring. Stick to your principles; people respect that. Life can be fun without all that shit. I'm in my 40's and never drank or did drugs. People who would make a judgment about "boring" based on drinking are thoughtless or perhaps just very young. Alcohol is a blight on our society.
  • ...no that is cool, and there are plenty of people out there that will hang out with you...and you can have fun with. In fact..............YOU ARE THE COOL kinda person who would be an awesome extremist! Parachuting, sky diving, bungee jumping, travel....anything, only cuz you are focused...will be full of energy, life....SOBER...and willing to take risks other than risking your health. So boring...naw. JUST FIND YOUR NIK! there are tunz of people out there who WANNA be your friend. CUZ THAT IS TOTALLY COOL (your decision)...so...boring? Sheesh, naw...if they do drugs and drink...and stuff just to have "fun and excitment"...THEY MY FRIEND, is the boring one.
  • No and you are not alone. Mormons don't do all those and they don't drink tea too. +4
  • I'm eighteen and I'm kind of like you in that I'm not big on drinking and I also happen to not like coffee so I doubt I'll ever get into that either. As for whether the drinking thing will be an issue, that depends on who your friends are and how comfortable you are with saying no to your peers and sticking to it. When I first entered high school I was all for experimenting and my best friends and I would go to parties and drink a lot. I had a particularly bad incident and after thinking things through decided to give up drinking. The problem here was that a lot of what my friends talked about and did revolved around drinking, and I suddenly felt like I couldn't relate in the same way. Being the sober one at parties can be a little boring, and as an outsider the whole getting drunk thing looks even more silly and pointless. Needless to say, I started spending less and less time with this group, and by luck I found my way to some friends that were really dynamic and interesting and did not care much for drinking either. So they are out there. When I go off to school I may have the occasional drink, but I know my limit and don't feel the need to intoxicate myself. And if anyone finds that boring, that's their loss. You just know how to entertain yourself in other ways and can still remember what happened the next morning!
  • They might - but that will be their problem and not yours - you live your life the way YOU want to. As for not smoking / drinking / coffee / whatever - tastes change as you grow older. My niece hated coffee until she was in her 20's, my youngest daughter used to beat me and my wife up about our smoking cigarettes until she became a smoker herself in high school. I personally hated wine until I was in my mid 30's - and I used to love the taste of Tequila until recently and now even the smell of it makes me sick. So I would never say "never" about anything...I would say - at this point in my life I have no interest is certain things - but that may change in the future. Remember - live your life the way you want to and try to enjoy it as much as possible - I believe life is a banquet, and I try a bit of everything that's offered - and that works the best for me.
  • A lot may depend on where you live. In Ireland you would be a real weirdo if you didn't drink and would find it very difficult to socalise.
  • I do not think there is anything wrong with your choice. You will save yourself a lot of grief by sticking to a decision like that. I do not have any vices now, however, I did drink for years. I wish I would have never started. The best way to avoid problems, in social situations, is not to make a big deal out of it. Just order club soda when you go out. Usually, no one knows or cares about what you are drinking. Good luck with your decision. +5
  • Not at all, as long as you hang out with the right groups. Good people will be understanding of this and despite any differences they may have in opinion, they will stick by you. Actually, I believe that in careers, your boss might like you better because of that. Kudos to you. +2.
  • You could be in for health issues. Moderate drinking is good for your heart.
  • Never say never.
  • depends on the kind of people you want to hang out with. if you hang with people who think those are the meaning of life you are in for some major social problems. if you hang with people who rarely or never use recreational drugs and you will fit right in.you can not expect to go to an uncivilized kegger and have people understand why you do not drink
  • Yes, unfortunately. I'm the same way. I'm 22 and when some people ask me if I drink alcohol or coffee and I say no they usually give me this wierd look. Like I did something wrong. And our conservations are a little akward from that point on. Older people tend to accept your decision better probably because they understand why you made that choice. I hope you stand by your choices and don't give in to peer pressure. It seems like you are going to be a wise man.
  • Young man give yourself a pat on the back. I am forty-six years old right now and I never have done any of the things that you mentioned. Now an occasional glass of wine at a wedding is not bad but it is really up to you. Now as for any social issues, you will run in to them, this is a fact but if you stick to your guns you will live a very long and happy life and many, many people will respect you for your decision. Remember it's not about them, it's about yourself !!!
  • there are many like you out there, just be somewhat outgoing and chances are you'll find them. it doesn't matter what others think of your life choices, just be true to yourself and you'll do well.
  • Adults are not like teenagers. We dont give a rat's butt if another adult doesnt drink or do drugs. We don't peer pressure each other. If anythi g the majority prefer it that way. We are also wise enough to not hang out with the class of people who do the things we dislike. Thats one of the perks of being a mature adult. We run our own lives. We dont have to ask the kind of question you just asked. Your choices are your choices nobody is going to hassle you about it.
  • Being certain of anything at 17 is cause to question.
  • i dont think so, theres others that dont do that either, i dont except for coffee

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