Importance of Daily Positive Action in Recovery

March 20,2013

œThink positive. You hear it all the time at drug and alcohol rehab centers, but really, what difference does it make?

Importance of Daily Positive Action in Recovery

œThink positive. You hear it all the time at drug and alcohol rehab centers, but really, what difference does it make? You probably are thinking to yourself, œIt isn't going to change the world, it certainly won't keep the cops or my parents off my back, what am I wasting my time for?œ Maybe you're right. Just maybe, though, I can help you understand why it matters¦

Making a decision to have a better life is great. Merely thinking that things will be okay is awesome, but it won't do the trick. If that is all you do is think positively, and you take no positive action to make things happen, then more than likely nothing will change. Nobody is going to come running to you because you think nice thoughts. In fact, who but you knows your thoughts? Perhaps they will come running when you do nice things. It isn't about them, it's about you!

Positive actions are those things people do for themselves, which will improve their lives. For example, you can eat a healthy breakfast at home and then workout, as opposed to driving to get fast food, bringing it home and sitting on the couch, eating and watching television. The behaviors you exhibit will ultimately testify whether your life is meaningful just empty. What reflects a positive attitude? What set of behaviors should you exhibit in order to be rightfully called œpositive action?

There are things we do that are positive actions, and there are thing we don't do that are positive actions. Can you think of anything that fits into each category? Let me give you some places to start.

Something we do that is a positive action could be deciding to lose weight and making a change in the way you eat. Notice I didn't say that you were going to diet. By changing the way you eat, you're committing to making a life-change. This is a positive action. Now how about something you don't do? How about not sitting in front of a television all day, playing video games? This frees your time to allow you to do something productive. In this case, not doing something (a positive action) gives you the time to do something positive (another positive action).

One of the toughest things about recovery is that addicts generally have self-esteem issues. Sure, they might mask their insecurities with over-confidence, but deep down, the lack of self-worth is boiling up. When you do something from your heart, something that is good for you, you'll know it in your gut. It will make you feel good about yourself, and you'll improve your self-esteem.

As your self-esteem grows, you'll begin to recognize the value you have to both yourself and others. If you have a job, for example, you'll more clearly see the value of your contribution to the business, and so will your superiors.

Many addicts feel that to be themselves, they must fight societal standards. They often state that they œdon't care what others think about them. The real truth, of course, is that most people want to be accepted by others. It validates their worth, and helps them be happy. We are social beings who long for each other's approval. Scientifically, happiness in turn releases endorphins in the brain, which yields general pleasure. Like a spiral down, this can spiral up. In a while, you'll find your happiness is sincere, and you're beginning to truly love who you are becoming.

Seeing the world through a unique set of eyes gives you a perspective that others may not share. Happiness is not just perspective, it's your inner you. Find the positive actions that will help you to become content with your life. One day at a time¦

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When a person suffers from a severe case of drug or alcohol addiction, the best method of treatment is seeking professional help at an addiction treatment facility. Licensed therapists and counselors at Florida Center for Addiction Recovery are trained to conduct effective treatment for various kinds of addictions, as well as mental health issues and those suffering from psychological distress.For additional information on drug abuse and addiction treatment services, you may contact us at:

Florida Center for Recovery “ Addiction Treatment Center: 1-800-960-5041

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MARK KILLAR

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