Guiding Principles of Recovery

February 20,2013

When considering the formula for working through a recovery, it is essential that the first rule be that œno one passes judgment on another. Why is this so critical?

When considering the formula for working through a recovery, it is essential that the first rule be that œno one passes judgment on another. Why is this so critical?

Taking the first step and walking through a door to talk with strangers about a personal problem is courageous, to say the least. Having another person, walking in the same shoes as you, tell you that you are doing things wrong is nothing more than their opinion. And opinions, as they say, are like tongues”everyone has one.

The second rule is to work with a format that helps people identify their own weaknesses, and work toward making a œbetter me. Following a traditional 12-Step program has definite benefits, such as a well-defined structure with œrules (or steps) as they are called.

The first step in a 12 Step program is acceptance of powerlessness. Without understanding what this means, and how it affects you in your everyday life, you will have difficulty working within the parameters of recovery. In fact, acceptance of this premise is essential to living a more peaceful life. Powerlessness isn't saying you can't help you, it's saying you have no power over alcohol, drugs, another person, or their addictions or choices. We might influence them, but the decision always rests in their hands.

Familiarity with others in a meeting comes with time, but getting to know each others' names will help make it more comfortable. It also removes the animosity that one feels when sitting with a group of strangers.

Allowing everyone with the opportunity to speak is great, however, some people won't feel comfortable talking in public. Making sure they know the option of passing may be essential to their return for another meeting. Another option is to let those who wish to speak raise their hand and not be in a œline where everyone has to accept or reject the offer.

The role of the leader is to facilitate the meeting, not take it over with a monologue. Limiting people to reasonable time when speaking helps keep the meeting moving. It's also the role of the leader to respect everyone's time and bring the meeting to a close on schedule.

I find that when I lead a meeting, bringing others into the discussion helps the meeting to take a route that is often unlike my original plan, creating a life of its own. Most people find that when such a format is followed, they have a chance to talk about what's important to them.

Recovery isn't a one-day program. It's a life-long commitment to making sure you do the right thing. A solid recovery program can make all the difference in your recovery.

____________________________________________________

Call A Center For Addiction Recovery and speak to one of our certified drug rehab therapists to find out more about our addiction treatment programs, and how we incorporate various proven therapies like the 12 step program, cognitive therapy and holistic drug treatment therapy to achieve results. Everyday is a new day to make a change. Please contact our drug and alcohol addiction treatment center to speak with a certified counselor about how to begin the recovery process.

Center for Addiction Recovery “ Addiction Treatment Center: 1-800-570-4562

Physical, Emotional and Spiritual Recovery

406

views

PDF Print Email Report

Contact

A Center for Addiction Recovery

800-570-4562

MARK KILLAR

Featured Sections