The words "designated driver" typically make people immediately roll their eyes or yell "not it" as soon as the issue is brought up. However, being the 'baby' of my family and friends has made my experience being the designated driver too many times to count.
Here are 10 reasons I've experienced why being DD is actually the best:
1. You don't miss out on good sleep.
While your friends or family spend the night chugging down shot after shot, you graciously sip on your water. As a result, you pass out like a light as soon as you hit the bed, whereas they are left taking Tylenol left and right to battle their headache.
2. The entertainment provided by "people watching" hits a whole new level.
If you have ever been in a situation where you are the only sober one in sight, you know what I am talking about when I say watching drunk people is pretty entertaining, and even more so as the night goes on.
3. You feel great Saturday morning.
While the people you DD'd the night before are most likely stuck in front of the toilet or bedridden, you feel like you could go for a five-mile run (well maybe not that extreme, but you get the idea).
4. Anything you want, just say the words and it's yours.
In my experience, the people I am DDing are always so grateful that they offer to get me whatever I want. I don't want to take advantage of people, but hey if they offer to buy my food at the bar while they drink am I really gonna say no?
5. You get special deals as a designated driver.
It isn't only the people you are driving that are grateful for you- but also everyone else. Often times, restaurants, Sports events, etc. offer free things for the designated driver. Sure, it may be as simple as a free soda, but it's nice to feel appreciated.
6. You know everyone is safe.
Being the DD means you know that everyone made it back safe, and I don't know about you, but knowing that everyone is okay helps me sleep a little better at night.
7. You save on the two major C's: cash and calories.
It's no secret that drinking can be an expensive form of entertainment as well as fattening- but by opting to be the dd that is one less concern you have to worry about.
8. You won't have to be reminded the next day of all the embarrassing things you did.
There's nothing worse than being reminded by your pals that you tried to come on to that cute guy from your psych class who just happened to be at the same party- only that he obviously was not into you and now you awkwardly have to see him in class on Monday. As DD though you won't have to worry about regrets, but get the luxury of telling your friends the embarrassing things they did.
9. You get to have some say in how late you're out.
Being the DD means you don't have to worry about being out to 3 a.m as you're the one with the keys- and most of the people you're with will respect you're want to go home. Remember not to be too much of a party pooper though. leaving at midnight? No problem. leaving at 9 p.m.? Well, that might be pushing it.
10. Your friends will love you all the more.
There's no doubt that being the DD has some downsides to it- but whoever you're DDing will love you all the more for it!
