At some point in our recovery process, we may find ourselves feeling disconnected from our program. The relief that we once had, or were searching for, isn’t showing up or maintaining.
Old habits return and our emotions feel a little overwhelming or out of control. We are once again, or still, irritable, restless, and discontent. In these times, we tend to blame or worry about the program we are working.
It can be all too easy to allow these concerns to push us away from the accomplishments we have made or the progress in our lives. When this happens, it is very important that we revisit some of the central ideas of the program, and not react impulsively.
We must look into what actions we can take to remedy these issues in order to avoid a relapse or creating new resentments.
Progress Not Perfection
One of the first things we must remember is that no one works a perfect program. There is no one person who does absolutely everything right.
We are all human and we make mistakes. We have our own flaws and struggles to work through. Every bit of progress is a miracle.
In the same way that everyone’s life path is a little different, the same can be said for recovery. We make self-discoveries in our own time, overcome our trauma at different speeds.
That is the beautiful thing about working a program of recovery. Each day is a new chance to grow and get a little farther.
Try not to compare yourself to others or rush to keep up. Appreciate the beauty of a sober life. Take pride in how far you have come. Most importantly, be grateful for the little blessings that surround you daily.
What Am I Missing?
When we have feelings of discontent and are agitated with our program, we may need to consider some areas that we haven’t given proper attention to. Think about the meetings you attend. Are you attending the right amount? Are the meetings you go to providing the solution you need.
You may need to branch out and try different meetings with various formats, introducing yourself to some new people. Reflect on how active you are in sobriety.
Are you working with a sponsor and your steps? If you have already completed the 12-steps, you may need to restart them and address them from a viewpoint of emotional sobriety.
There may be things you still have not processed. Begin work with a new sponsee, or take a commitment. Sometimes being of service is just what we need to feel rejuvenated.
Finally, reflect on your connection to your Higher Power. Have you been praying and meditating?
A lack of communication between you and your Higher Power can be detrimental to your program. Sometimes re-evaluating the foundations of our recovery can help us see the areas we need to strengthen and help us find our passion once again.
Call The Guest House Ocala today for information on our residential treatment programs for traumas, addictions, and related mental health issues: 855-483-7800.