Social Life vs. Health: Finding Balance as a DJ
Photo by Maor Attias
“The DJ lifestyle is a high-octane world filled with late nights, alcohol, and peer pressure, making it difficult to maintain a healthy balance.”
By Mike Garrett - DJ Mike, Host of 2 DJs 1 Mic
Being a DJ is a dream lifestyle for many—playing music, traveling, and vibing with crowds who feed off your energy. But what happens when the same energy that fuels your passion begins to drain your well-being? The DJ lifestyle is a high-octane world filled with late nights, alcohol, and peer pressure, making it difficult to maintain a healthy balance.
The truth is, DJing creates the perfect atmosphere to make unhealthy choices in bunches. Being out at all times of the day and night disrupts your sleep, throws off your eating habits, and can push you into a cycle of partying just because it’s the environment you’re in. The challenge isn't just about resisting temptation—it's about making a conscious decision to not allow your good habits to become threatened by old ones.
The Silent Pressure of the Scene
One of the biggest struggles in maintaining balance is that many of your choices aren’t necessarily being forced upon you, but rather, influenced by the environment. Peer pressure doesn’t always come in the form of someone saying, “Hey, take this shot” or “Try this.” Sometimes, it’s simply being in a space where others are indulging in habits that you may have once been a part of. When you're around people who don’t judge certain behaviors, it becomes much easier to justify slipping back into them.
This is where many DJs fall into the trap—thinking they have control, only to wake up realizing that they’ve let their surroundings dictate their actions. It’s not enough to just ‘want’ to be healthier. You have to actively set boundaries and make decisions that protect you from becoming a victim of old habits.
Be of the Party, But Not of the Party
As a DJ, your job is to bring the energy and set the tone. But that doesn’t mean you have to be consumed by the party. There’s a difference between participating and getting lost in it. When you step behind the decks, you are in control—not just of the music but of your personal space, your energy, and your choices.
This is where boundaries become your best friend. It’s not about avoiding fun or rejecting social experiences—it’s about choosing what serves you and what doesn’t. If you know drinking late into the night will mess up your productivity the next day, set a limit. If you recognize that certain afterparties always lead to bad decisions, bow out. Learn to have fun on your own terms.
The Balancing Act: Health vs. Social Acceptance
Another challenge you’ll face is the discomfort your healthy choices may bring to others. It’s an odd phenomenon—people often feel uneasy when they see someone making choices that contrast with their own. When you start prioritizing your health, those around you might question why you're "acting different.” They might even joke or challenge you, trying to pull you back into old habits to make themselves feel okay.
But their discomfort is not your problem. Your responsibility is to yourself and your well-being. If saying no to drinks or leaving a gig early means protecting your energy, then that’s exactly what you should do. Stand firm for the betterment of you.
Creating a Healthier DJ Lifestyle
Balancing DJ life with good health isn’t about perfection—it’s about intentionality. Here are some practical steps you can take:
Set Boundaries Before You Step Out – Know your limits before you get to the venue. Whether it’s how many drinks you’ll have, how late you’ll stay, or whether you’ll indulge in certain behaviors, pre-decide so you don’t get caught up in the moment.
Plan Your Sleep Schedule Like a Gig – Late nights are part of the job, but that doesn’t mean your sleep should suffer indefinitely. Schedule naps, use blackout curtains, and create a nighttime wind-down routine to help your body recover.
Eat to Fuel, Not Just to Fill – A DJ’s schedule can make it easy to rely on fast food and late-night snacks. Plan ahead with nutrient-dense meals that keep your energy levels steady without the crash.
Stay Hydrated – Alcohol and energy drinks are often free-flowing in the club scene, but dehydration can kill your stamina. Keep water nearby and drink it often.
Move Your Body – DJing can be physically taxing—long hours standing, carrying gear, and repetitive motions. Stretch regularly, incorporate some light workouts, and stay active to avoid long-term aches and pains.
Find Social Circles That Align With Your Goals – Not everyone will understand your shift toward a healthier lifestyle, but there are people who will. Seek out other DJs and industry professionals who prioritize wellness and can support your journey.
The Bottom Line: Own Your Choices
At the end of the day, finding balance as a DJ is about ownership. It’s about recognizing the pressures, acknowledging the temptations, and making a firm decision to choose yourself over fleeting moments. The party will always be there, but your health and well-being won’t wait for you to get it together.
You have the power to create a DJ lifestyle that allows you to thrive—both on and off the decks. Be of the party, but not of the party. Choose wisely, stand firm, and watch how your life transforms for the better.