"People who cry “professionalism” are asking for us to represent companies and career over being ourselves. These are not the people we want at our conferences"<p>Then count me as not welcome at one of your conferences. I attend conferences for my business and career. Every moment I'm at a conference is a moment I'm not with my neighbors, family, and friends back home. I'd rather not waste those moments reliving frat-party days.
Yep. The reason is "drinking problem." Nothing special or geeky about it and it is very common across all professions and lifestyles. It means one is at risk for alcoholism.<p>Not trying to be alarming, like I said, it is common. But it is a really good idea to get a grip on the drinking before it gets a grip on you.