Whats an appropriate drink to order at a business dinner when you don't like alcohol?

• There will be a casual business dinner in which we will be in small groups at tables. The menu is already set and a choice of soft drinks, water,and alcohol will be served. Im 23 and the few drinks I have had,I didn't like the taste of. I have never had the desire to drink alcohol because growing up no one in my family drank alcohol. Here's the dilemma. Everyone in my office drinks. I have never told anyone that I dont drink/like to drink because it has never come up and I dont want to seem boring and immature. Im the youngest one in the office so at the dinner I dont want to seem immature and boring. I also dont want people to question why Im not drinking alcohol. I hate when people question me because they make it seem like im sooo boring and ask "so what DO you do for fun?" I REALLY HATE THAT! lol. Whats a safe drink to order so I won't be questioned about it in front of everyone? or should I just order a drink (thats not strong) and nurse it? What should I do? Thanks!

• Answer:

  If you don't like drinking, then don't order anything stronger than a soda. Trust me, it's not like anyone can tell the difference between a rum and coke, gin and tonic or a wide variety of other mixed drinks simply from looking at it. Seriously, people have to learn to take you as you are. Just as your friends take you as you are, so must your co-workers. Ignore anyone's questions regarding what you do for fun. It's really none of their business and you're living your life on your terms to make you happy, not them. Besides, truth be told, you should NEVER drink at a business dinner or company party. I don't care how casual it may be. Someone always does something out of character, stupid or uncalled for that they can never live down. Order a soda with ice and be true to yourself young lady. No one will be able to tell the difference between your soda and their mixed drink. But above all, don't worry about what others think is appropriate.