How to go out tonight without being a complete mess?

MY PROBLEM

Im 38M and used to party all the time, but these days its very rare.

I also really struggle when I go out these days, I am never able to pace myself and just drink to the point where I get really drowsy and fall asleep (while Im still in the club)

I have a rare night out planned tonight and am sorta dreading what sort of state I’ll be in.

Please dont suggest alternating with glasses of water in between beers, because when I start drinking beer, I never want to then start order glasses of fucking WATER lol

MY PLAN

Im actually thinking I might have a few beers at home this afternoon until Im pretty tipsy, then eat a big meal, and then sober up a bit… then I go out to the club about an hour later

So Im hoping this way I wont really feel like drinking much when I go out tonight

Does that sound like a plan?