A R T I C L E S
Acceptance
Faith in the Healing Process
Learning New Life Skills
Freedom to Make Healthy Choices
“Change is an inside job”
1. Acceptance of the problem and willingness to take responsibility for making healthy changes. This is the 1st step: “I'm powerless right now about this problem and my life is unmanageable around it.” I am willing to let go of what others are or are not doing, swallow my pride and ask for help.
2. Awareness of new resources and choices. During this phase, I come to believe that, by trusting the process, there is a way for the problem to be resolved. I become dedicated to learning how to be honest, open-minded and willing. I explore new ideas and new sources of help to replace old, obsolete or useless information and decision-making habits. I make a commitment to risk trusting another human being to be my counselor, sponsor or mentor during my recovery.
3. Skill building. I learn the value of “delayed gratification” rather than the pursuit of the “quick-fix”. I accept that life is, by nature, difficult and pain is part of growth. (“Pain is inevitable, suffering is optional.”) Skills to learn during this phase include: anger and stress management, communication skills (effectively telling it like it is with honesty and respect, so that I'm heard), inventory writing, creation of a safe- place, meditation and prayer.
4. Living life on life's terms. Formal counseling or treatment ends and a workable wellness program has been defined. There is a commitment to a healthy, non-addictive, inter-dependent lifestyle. There is an appreciation for community support and sponsorship. Nurturing relationships are being fostered. The need for connectedness and belonging are being met and there is a growing certainty that “all things are working together for good.”