I think different types of alcohol have quite a different effect on me now (40yo) - wine will get me mellow and sleepy, beer would get me to be more social, whiskey will make me more energetic / risk taking.

Knowing that I can tune my level of enjoyment of whatever is happening.

Though there is an old saying from where I grew up - alcohol is stealing happiness from tomorrow to have it today.

And that has always stuck with me - whenever I drink I get a bit happier that instant and feel worse more tired the next day.

And that is ok if I am going to a social event and I want to get the most out of it, and I know next day will be chill anyway - who’ll can make the “chill” time even more chill.