People who say things they regret after a few drinks typically display these 7 specific traits

We’ve all been there – a few drinks in and suddenly we’re spilling secrets or saying things we’d never dare to sober. It’s a phenomenon that can leave many of us cringing the next morning.

But have you ever noticed that some people are more prone to this than others? It turns out that those who often find themselves regretting their tipsy talk typically display certain specific traits.

In this article, we’ll dive into these 7 telling characteristics. Whether you’re trying to understand your own behavior or that of a friend, these insights could be enlightening.

1) Lowered inhibitions

Let’s start with something pretty basic, but fundamental – the effect of alcohol on our inhibitions.

When we drink, our inhibitions are often lowered, and that can lead to us saying things we wouldn’t usually say. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing – sometimes it can lead to great conversations and deep connections.

But for those who regularly find themselves regretting their tipsy talk, this lowered inhibition can be a bit of a problem.

They may struggle to keep their private thoughts private, or they may say things that are inappropriate or hurtful without intending to.

This isn’t about blaming the alcohol, but understanding the role it plays. And for those who want to avoid saying things they regret, being aware of this trait can be the first step towards managing it better.

2) Lack of self-awareness

Here’s a personal confession: I’ve been known to say things I regret after a few drinks. And, on reflection, it often comes down to a lack of self-awareness.

Drinking can blur the lines between what we think and what we say. We might believe we’re being hilariously entertaining, while in reality, we might be crossing boundaries or making others uncomfortable.

I remember one particular evening when I thought I was the life of the party, telling stories left and right.

But the next day, a friend gently pointed out that my ‘funny’ anecdotes were actually quite embarrassing for another friend involved.

That was a wake-up call for me. It made me realize that when I drink, I need to be more mindful of my words and actions.

This isn’t always easy, but it’s crucial if we want to avoid waking up with a heavy dose of regret the next morning.

3) High extraversion

Extraversion is a personality trait that’s often associated with being outgoing, talkative, and energetic.

Interestingly, research has shown a correlation between this trait and the likelihood of experiencing alcohol-induced blunders.

A study published in the Addictive Behaviors Journal showed that individuals high in extraversion were more likely to engage in impulsive behavior after consuming alcohol.

This impulsivity can often manifest as saying things without thinking them through, leading to regrettable comments or revelations.

While this doesn’t mean all extroverts are doomed to say things they regret after a few drinks, it does highlight an intriguing connection. 

4) High stress or anxiety levels

Stress and anxiety can play a significant role in what we say when we’ve had a few drinks.

Alcohol often serves as a temporary escape from these feelings, making us more likely to let loose and say things we might keep to ourselves in a sober state.

For example, someone dealing with high stress at work might vent about their job or their boss after a few drinks.

Alternatively, a person with social anxiety might overcompensate by sharing too much personal information, hoping to connect with others.

However, once the buzz wears off and reality sets in, they might regret sharing these thoughts or feelings. 

5) Desire for connection

At the heart of many shared experiences, especially those involving a drink or two, is a deep desire for connection. We all want to feel understood, seen, and accepted.

Sometimes, in the quest for this connection, we may share more than we intended. We might reveal our insecurities, our fears, our dreams, or our past – things we might keep close to our chest when we are sober.

There’s a certain vulnerability in these moments that can be beautiful and meaningful. But it can also lead to regret if we feel we’ve shared too much or exposed parts of ourselves that we’re not ready to reveal.

It’s a delicate balance – being open enough to connect with others but also protecting our inner selves. 

6) Low self-esteem

Low self-esteem can often lead to saying things we regret after a few drinks. When we’re not feeling confident about ourselves, we might seek validation or reassurance from others.

I recall a time when I was feeling particularly low about my career achievements.

After a few drinks at a social gathering, I found myself fishing for compliments, downplaying my accomplishments and embellishing my failures.

The next day, I regretted putting myself down and making others uncomfortable.

This trait isn’t about seeking pity, but reflecting on how our self-perception can influence our words and actions.

Recognizing this can be an important step in building self-esteem and communicating more authentically, whether sober or not.

7) Lack of self-control

Arguably, the most crucial trait that leads people to say things they regret after a few drinks is a lack of self-control.

Alcohol can lower our inhibitions and impair our judgement, making us more likely to say things without considering the consequences.

While it’s normal to let loose and be more open when having a good time, maintaining a certain level of self-control can prevent regrettable words.

It’s about finding that sweet spot between being true to ourselves and respecting others’ boundaries, making sure our actions align with who we want to be.

Final thoughts

If saying things you regret after a few drinks sounds familiar, it’s worth taking a step back to evaluate why.

Understanding these traits isn’t about judgment—it’s about awareness. By recognizing them, you can take control of your behavior and make conscious choices that align better with who you want to be.

It’s never too late to make changes for the better.