It’s important to let your friends know that you no longer use any alcohol or other drugs. Let them know what would happen: for example, “If I have even one drink it could lead to ten, and I could lose my job.” It’s important to let your friends know that you need to completely avoid being around people who are drinking or using other drugs. Try to make it clear that this is really a matter of life and death for you.
If your friends do not value your recovery, it is best to avoid them right now. Even if your friends don’t pressure you to drink, just being around drinking or using friends will definitely threaten your recovery.
This is why it is essential to develop friendships with people from Twelve Step or other peer support groups to give you balance. These people will provide valuable support and advice and will help you stay focused on doing “the next right thing.” They can understand your problems, because it’s likely that they have been through a similar situation. You can spend time with these friends and not worry about added temptation to drink or use other drugs.
Action for the Day
Make a list of sober friends and family you can count on. Store contact information for these people on your mobile device so that you will always be able to contact them.
Thought for the Day
“I will live one day at a time. I will make each day one of preparation for better things ahead. I will not dwell on the past or the future, only on the present.
Twenty-Four Hours a Day, January 1
Big Book
Read about the power of friendship and belonging in “The Keys of the Kingdom” on page 268
