Getting In A Rut
To start with, embarking on a journey of recovery, like many other new things in life, is exciting. It is even more so as we have been in the metaphorical darkness for so long that the light is dazzling. Gone is the physical sickness; even more positive is that a lot of the mental anguish is also gone – the guilt and shame, misery and pain. However, after a while – maybe weeks, maybe months, maybe longer – comes a bit of a reality check as we adjust to a new normality, getting into a rut.
After attending twelve step support group meetings for some time we can also get a little fed up with these. It can feel like the same old, same old, with the same faces and the same old moans and groans (getting into a rut). If this is your experience – or even if it is not. It is a good idea to check out some different meetings to meet new people and try something a bit different.
Step 10 – Daily Inventory
Another good way of keeping a healthy and positive recovery on track is to keep your daily inventory – step 10. If this is not sufficient, to write a gratitude list. If you like writing, a daily diary can be a very good way of offloading and understanding your feelings. It can also be valuable to look back at past ramblings to see that when you feel down, your mood usually picks up again. You may be able to see a pattern in your moods which can help you deal with them – or maybe you will see there is no pattern and you are just an up and down recovering addict!
Helping Others
Helping others is an excellent way of keeping a positive recovery on track. If you reach out at twelve step meetings to someone who is struggling and you help them, you will feel that your own horrendous experience of drinking or using has some benefit for others. I know that I would not be the person I am today if I had not been through what I have – and I truly believe I am more compassionate and understanding – and more broad minded and less judgemental as a result of my alcoholism. For that I am truly grateful. It is worth being an alcoholic for the benefits I have gained.
You do not just have to reach out to people in recovery. There are many people and organisations needing help and you can be a good listener for anyone.
Never Forget Where You Came From
Finally, without dwelling on it, never forget where you came from and the difference in your life now to how it was then. If you had not stopped drinking or using, you would be where by now? Jobless, homeless, no family, no partner, no friends, no loved ones standing by you, dead? You have been given a second chance of life. Live it and embrace it! Enjoy the seasons and the weather in all its variety. Engage with people and the world, get travelling, go for it! Do not get into a rut!
If you have an alcohol or drug related problem. Please call 01462 851414 for free and confidential advice and help.
