Welcome to Zero Proof, the weekly manifest making it easy to feel good about not drinking.

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As always, don’t borrow from tomorrow.

-Billy & Connor

Also, don’t forget to fill out our usual poll at the bottom of the newsletter if you have feedback on the content of this specific issue.

Here’s what’s on today’s menu:

• No Booze News 📈: The Death of Work Happy Hour

• They’re one of us 🤝:  James Corden - Don’t Borrow From Tomorrow

• Wait, but why? 🤔: Where did Happy Hour even come from?

• Healthy Habit 🌱: The Ultimate Brain Workout

• Product Spotlight 🛒: MARQUIS - rethink how you drink caffeine

• Events 🎤: Unleash Your Inner Comedian With Improv

No Booze News 📈:

The death of work happy hour

Today let’s talk happy hour, specifically the work happy hour - You’re favorite forced social setting which you totally have the energy for and couldn’t be more excited about 😅

Yeaaaa, not really.

Gone are the days of happy hour being the de facto way to bond with coworkers after a long day at the office. A recent survey by ezCater found that 68% of employees actually prefer socializing during the workday itself instead of after work and particulalry without drinking.

The pressure to attend post-work events is real. A whopping 64% of workers admit they feel obliged to stay, even if they'd rather be elsewhere. Some even resort with the all to familiar sneaky irish exit or ghosting to avoid the uncomfortable situation altogether. (we’ve all been there 🫢)

So, what's the deal? Well, it seems the WFH comfort zone might be a factor. After all, transitioning from virtual chats to face-to-face conversations can be daunting. Plus, with the rise of hybrid work culture, people have gotten used to making their own plans outside of work hours.

The solution? Shift the focus to daytime bonding activities. Lunch breaks are becoming the new happy hour, with 81% of employees craving more opportunities to connect during office hours.

And what's better than free food? It's a win-win for everyone, you have something to be excited about keeping motivations high during the day and don’t have to stress about post-work events eating into your personal calendar.

Everyone’s happier, healthier, all around more productive.

In the end, whether it's over a delicious, healthy lunch or a midday coffee break, there are plenty of ways to build camaraderie without the pressure to drink.

And yes we realize that a catering company advocating for more corporate lunches seems a little biased, but we just love the angle on how to do better HH 😂

They’re one of us 🤝:

James Corden - Don’t borrow from tomorrow

You may know James Corden as the energetic host of The Late Late Show, belting out tunes in his popular Carpool Karaoke segment. But before late-night fame, he was a co-creator and star of the beloved British sitcom Gavin & Stacey. This multi-talented Brit is an actor, comedian, singer, and writer all rolled into one.

While the charismatic Corden might seem like someone who fancies a few pints, he’s also made the decision to step away from drinking alcohol.

James’s take on how he thinks about drinking almost makes too much sense. The math equation he does about borrowing from tomorrow is one that we can all take with us.

1 hour of drinking today = 1 hour borrowed from tomorrow

He is most definitely a Proofer! Check out more below.

@reframeapp

While James Corden never claims to be alcohol free, he does see the faults in consuming alcohol and does so mindfully! 🧠🍷 In this intervie... See more

Wait, but why? 🤔:

Where did Happy Hour even come from?

Believe it or not, "Happy Hour" wasn't always synonymous with discounted drinking schemes from bars trying to catch people on the way out of the office..

The term actually originated in the early 1900s on U.S. Navy ships. Sailors enjoyed a designated "happy hour" with entertainment like movies and boxing matches, a welcome break from the monotony of seafaring life.

Fast forward to Prohibition, when the term took on a new meaning. Secret gatherings for cocktails before dinner became known as "happy hours." After Prohibition ended, bars capitalized on the term, offering discounted drinks to lure in customers after work.

So really happy hour is just another phenomenally well exectuted branding takeover from people making money of alcohol.

But it doesn’t have to be! Truly a lot of what we focus on at Zero Proof are how to find and double down on your various happy hours throughout the day that don’t need to involve drinking.

What are your true happy hours?

Healthy Habit 🌱:

Get Creative: the ultimate brain workout

Feeling the daily grind? We all do sometimes. But what if there was a secret weapon to combat stress, boost brainpower, and tap into a wellspring of happiness? The answer might surprise you: it's creativity!

Why Creativity Matters: We all have a creative spark within us, waiting to be ignited. Whether it's writing, painting, playing music, or even telling jokes, creative pursuits offer a unique outlet for self-expression. They allow us to process emotions in a healthy way, translating anxieties and frustrations into something tangible. The act of creating itself becomes a form of meditation, pushing daily worries to the back burner and promoting a sense of calm.

But the benefits go beyond relaxation. Engaging in creative activities is like giving your brain a workout at the gym. It strengthens different neural pathways, fostering a more flexible and innovative way of thinking. Studies have shown that creative pursuits can enhance problem-solving skills and memory function.

How to Unlock Your Creativity: The beauty of creative outlets is that they're accessible to everyone. You don't need fancy equipment or formal training. Here's how to get started:

• Find your fit: Explore different creative activities. Take a writing class, join a local improv group, or dust off those paints from the back of the closet. There's no right or wrong answer – the key is to find something you enjoy.

• Start small: Don't feel pressured to create masterpieces overnight. Begin with short bursts of creative time, like 15 minutes of journaling or doodling in the morning. Consistency is key!

• Embrace the process: Creativity isn't always sunshine and rainbows. There will be moments of frustration or writer's block. But remember, the journey itself is valuable.

So, unleash your inner artist, writer, or comedian! Embrace the joy of creation and watch your stress melt away, your brain sharpen, and your overall well-being soar.

Proofer Products 🛒:

MARQUIS: RETHINK HOW YOU DRINK CAFFEINE

Instead of us trying to tell you all about MARQUIS… we thought we would let you tap into what they stand for… in their own words. With that said, this drink slaps! You gotta try it.

Why did MARQUIS Start?

“Our story began between a boardroom and a night club. Our routine was coffee in the morning, an energy drink after lunch, and a vodka-energy cocktail at night. Over time, we found that this toxic mix of large amounts of sugar and low quality caffeine was wreaking havoc on our minds and bodies. While there were healthier alternatives on the market, they all fell short on taste. So we fixed that.”

Why does MARQUIS exist?

“We don’t pretend we’re changing the world, but our ambition is no less lofty; to help you change your world. It doesn’t matter who you are, or where you’re from. With hard work, and a little help from Marquis, we know everyone can win everyday. Because, in each can is the confidence to get the kids to school on time, meet a deadline or ace an exam.”

How is MARQUIS Different and how its attacking big beverage?

“With drinks packed full of sugar, artificial chemicals and too much caffeine, the beverage industry is damaging people’s health, and it needs to stop. So, we’re starting a clean caffeine revolution and fighting back against lab-made corporate drinks. We know we’re the underdog, but that only motivates us more to spread the word and ensure everyone has access to responsible amounts of clean, green caffeine.”

Instead of us trying to tell you all about MARQUIS… we thought we would let you tap into what they stand for… in their own words. With that said, this drink slaps! You gotta try it.

Event Spotlight 🎤:

Unleash your inner James Corden with Improv!

We all know the routine: Friday night rolls around, you're looking to unwind, and grabbing drinks with friends seems like the go-to plan. But what if there was a way to de-stress, have a blast, and discover a hidden talent – all without a single hangover? Enter the world of improv comedy.

Improv: More Than Just Saying "Yes, And"

Improv classes aren't just about learning to be funny (although that's definitely a perk). They're about stepping outside your comfort zone, fostering creativity, and building confidence in a supportive environment. Through games, exercises, and scenes created on the spot, you'll learn valuable skills like:

• Thinking on your feet: Improv forces you to react quickly and come up with ideas in the moment, sharpening your wit and adaptability.

• Active listening: Success in improv relies on truly hearing your scene partners and building upon their ideas.

• Teamwork: Scenes are a collaborative effort, fostering communication and trust within the group.

The Antidote to the After-Work Slump

Instead of the usual post-work slump, improv offers a jolt of laughter and connection. Here's why it's the perfect alternative to a night at the bar:

• Stress Relief: Laughter is the best medicine. Improv provides a healthy outlet for releasing tension and boosting your mood.

• Social Connection: Bonding with classmates over shared silliness fosters a sense of community and belonging.

• Confidence Boost: Stepping outside your comfort zone and making people laugh is a surefire way to build self-esteem.

• New Skills: Learn valuable communication and collaboration skills that extend far beyond improv and can benefit all areas of your life.

Ready to Take the Plunge?

Improv classes are for everyone, regardless of comedic experience. Most studios offer introductory workshops or drop-in classes, so you can try it out before committing. So grab your friends (or go solo!), embrace the unexpected, and get ready to unleash your inner comedic genius! You might surprise yourself with hidden talents and discover a newfound love for laughter and spontaneous creativity.

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