Those that have accomplished long-term recovery didn’t get there by accident. Speak to anyone that has recovered and they will explain in detail specific actions that resulted in recovering from hopeless addiction and alcoholism. Listed here are the recurring actions of those that have recovered,
- Help another alcoholic or addict. There’s a reason that 12 step programs suggest working with others as a path to recovery. It has worked for many.
- Commit to your recovery. Relapse isn’t necessarily a part of recovery and it doesn’t have to part of yours. Take charge and commit to making this time your one and only recovery.
- Do it for yourself. It’s great if you have people around that care. However, when it comes down to it, you are responsible for your own recovery and you are the one that does the work. If you make someone else the focus of your recovery, your level of responsibility and action may waiver.
- Build a strong, solid sober network and call at least three of them daily.
- Do service work. It will strengthen your recovery and make you feel good about yourself!
- Practice the daily ‘suggestions’: Don’t drink, go to a meeting, call your sponsor, pray, and help someone else.
- Be grateful. Finding things to appreciate in your life will ensure a positive attitude and help your recovery stay on track. You can’t feel sorry for yourself (which can lead to taking a drink) and be grateful at the same time. Choose an attitude of gratitude.
- Make sober plans: Meet a friend at a meeting, dinner/coffee before or after, hanging out with sober buddies. If you commit, you become less inclined to blow them off for a drink.
- Read recovery literature. There’s nothing like reading how someone else did it and finding similarities in your own story.
- Do some step work. Take time to write out your step work and share it with your sponsor. Jump in and create your own success!
Although it may be challenging to establish sober behavior on a daily basis, you are not alone. There are millions of alcoholics and addicts just like you that have paved the way and are happy to share their experience, strength and hope with you. If you have questions about getting started, call us today.
