I had to use the tools i learned in AA to maintain continuous sobriety, one day at a time. I learned these tools working with a person that worked the 12 steps before me. Working the steps, in order, is such a freeing experience and the promises on pages 84-84 do cone true.
If i could get and stay sober on sheer prayers, good, thoughts, and self will i would have. I tried and failed. I had to walk into a room of sober people to do what they did, because they have what I want.
This rewuired me to have the humility and courage to ask for help in the rooms, and for guidance from a sponsor to work the steps. I got phone numbers handed to me for when I felt funky. That means I had to pick up the 1000 pound phone, and actually dial those phone numbers so I was talked off a ledge.
These and some other simple actions for a complex person like me have helped fix my stinking thinking that a drink will solve the problems in front and all around me. I had to be so desperate to make these changes. I hope you find the gift of desperation and make these changes.