Day drinking in New York is an entirely different ballgame than night drinking. [Cue scary Liam Neeson voice] : It takes a very particular set of skills.

If you remember nothing else-- and you probably won’t, you’ll be drinking all day!-- remember this: one of the most important rules when it comes to day drinking is not to come out the gate too hard.

It’s a marathon, not a sprint; you want to keep pace with everyone else, not be the first to go down.

Let that be someone else, because it’ll be awesome to make fun of them later. Here are the 9 inevitable stages you’re likely to encounter during a day of boozin' it up in NYC.

1. The initial over-eagerness for the day's upcoming events

It’s here! You’re day drinking! You love day drinking! Hooray! Should you grab some booze and pre-game at the apartment before brunch? (Editor’s note: No, no you should not.)

[anad]

2. The struggle of trying to get over the initial hump

The alcohol-infused day typically starts off with a boozy brunch-- it’s of utmost importance you work food into this day, or you’ll never make it-- and sometimes those first couple of beers or mimosas can be tough to get down. It's still early, and let's be honest, you're probably still a bit hungover.

3. The game-changing first round of shots

There’s always an instigator (hey, it could be you!) that kickstarts the day into high gear with shots. It’s on.

4. The first big buzz of the day

This is usually between stop two and three and will be the high point of your day.

You’re laughing uncontrollably, feeling on top of the world, and probably texting someone you later wish you hadn’t.

5. When you start to hit a wall and convince yourself you’re “totally not drunk anymore”

It’s now mid-afternoon, and you’ve been drinking for about 4 solid hours. Your mind starts to wander to where the nearest decent slice is, so you quickly down another drink to stay on par with everyone else.

6. Realizing that was entirely wrong, and you’re still pretty drunk

Congrats, now you’re officially the drunkest person in the group.

7. The unwavering quest for food

You don’t know where you are and you don’t care. All you’re thinking is: GIVE ME ALL THE FOOD. NOW!!!!

8. The moment when you know what true love is

You've never been happier.

9. The face plant

Fully clothed (including shoes); usually by 7 p.m., latest.

If you enjoyed this article, check out the 8 Stages of Drinking With Your Coworkers in NYC!