A sobriety that flourishes

Recovery
#1

That’s the ultimate goal, right? When we first get sober, we fight just to avoid a relapse, we’re in survival mode. Then eventually, the fog lifts, and slowly but surely, our life begins to blossom again, free of the limitations of active addiction.

As we “normalize”, and get our life back, our goals become more lofty. Instead of just wanting to avoid relapse, we begin to want more. We want a life that flourishes.

It takes hard work, and most of all, perseverance, to get our lives on track. Good things begin to happen if we have established a sobriety that is balanced, sustainable, and dare I say it, a sobriety that is fun. Our lives begin to blossom.

For those of you who have found success and contentment, what are some of your tips, must-dos, or pieces of advice for those in early sobriety? Any steps you took that you feel contributed to your successful sobriety?

5 Likes
#2

Here for the answers because that’s such a great reflective question!

#3

I’ll start, and I’m probably forgetting a few.

  1. have a sober team, people who support your recovery: counselors, sponsors, mentors, coaches, etc.

  2. A favorites list on your phone. Phone numbers of people you can call if you’re ever tempted, having a craving, or whatever. When you’re in a bad situation, just start calling people on this favorites list until someone answers.

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#4
  1. Make a list of things you want to do, now that you’re sober. Figure out what makes you happy, big things and small, and go do them. Sobriety can be wonderful, if you make it wonderful. You can have a sobriety that is so good, you’ll have no desire to relapse.
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#5

Along with 2, delete numbers from your phone, the numbers of people who will be bad for your early recovery (dealers, using “friends”, etc.). You can’t run from your troubles, but you can get rid of potential temptations.

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#6

  1. I had to believe in myself. Those around me did- but it took me awhile to believe in me.

  2. Made sober friends. Meetings. I host gatherings for my friends and exclude alcohol.

  3. Express gratitude for Loosid. The app is FREE! I know the team deals with our belly aching well.

  4. Most importantly, God. I had to let Him in and heal me from the open wounds.

  5. I had to be opened to criticism and stop taking things personal.

3 Likes
#7

I love these. I agree, being teachable is HUGE, as is giving back.

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#8

Being teachable isn't easy. Lol. It made me feel like all my flaws are/were exposed and I had to defend myself. But I am better now; and no one wants to be around someone who isn't teachable.

#9

As a wise man said to me once, "Every rich successful person on the planet has 1 thing in common. They read constantly. " so...I read.