Sobriety is a popular choice for many during the New Year, due mainly to the potential for new beginnings and a clean slate. Perhaps nothing better signals a “fresh start” than New Years Eve, and as such, a resolution to quit using drugs, drinking or participation in addictive behaviors (sex, gambling, video games, overeating, shopping, etc.) is quite common.

Typically, though, simply making a resolution can fall short. This is true even in individuals who are not addicted to a behavior or substance. If you have chosen to pursue sobriety in 2014, we have a few additional resolutions to help you through the journey.

Tips To Help With Your Sobriety Resolutions

• Tell family and friends about your addictive behaviors and your desire to maintain sobriety. Being accountable to other people makes it much more difficult to fall off the wagon.

• Seek out professional help. If you are struggling with alcoholism, it is important that you locate an effective treatment for alcohol addiction.  The same rules apply for a drug or gambling addiction.

• Begin participating in a 12-step recovery program. Whatever you are addicted to, chances are there is a program designed to help you. Attending regular meetings is a wonderful way to interact and meet with others who have experienced similar issues. Many in recovery attend daily meetings. After all, most addicts engage in addiction on a daily basis, right? In many situations, recovering addicts find sober relationships to be a key aspect in sobriety maintenance long-term.

• Switch up your routine. Long-term addicts generally maintain a pattern or routine that eventually culminates in addiction. Examine a typical day in your life and determine where you tend to veer towards use. At this point, you should alter your behavior. i.e. take a new route home from work, go for a quick walk, read a book, go to the movies with sober friends, etc. Whatever you choose, the important part is breaking the habit.

• Focus on your physical health. Choosing sobriety is not solely dependent on abstinence. It’s a complete change in lifestyle! Regular exercise and healthy diet can benefit sober living in a variety of ways. Not only will you feel better, you’ll look better too!

• Make a commitment to new adventures and relationships. Take a class at your local community college, learn an instrument or resume an old hobby – any activity to occupy your mind and body in a positive manner. Not only can these activities kick start your brain; they can also aid a social life!

Of course, maintaining these resolutions does not guarantee a perfect year. Life will happen for better or worse. That said, life in active addiction is always far worse than a sober lifestyle. You can do it. We believe in you.

For help jump-starting your recovery, contact us today at 877-733-5680!