Those who have been sober a while, how do you

Recovery
#1

Those who have been sober a while, how do you keep things fresh. I have 7.5 years and am a detox nurse. Although working in recovery is a great way to practice the 12th step, I find my own recovery lacking these days.

13 Likes
#3

Thank you that’s really sweet! Congrats on getting sober

1 Like
#4

I’m newly sober again, but I had 4 years once and I was working in recovery. It is not the same as taking someone through the steps. Go to a meeting and grab a newcomer to sponsor.

1 Like
#5

Unfortunately I don’t feel spiritually fit to sponsor right now. I have in the past but due to postpartum depression, I have a lot of work to do on my own mental health right now before I feel fit to sponsor again.

#6

I encourage you to read some of Bill W’s letters to the Grapevine, especially the one in emotional sobriety. He suffered from depression his entire life. I do too, and I’ve let it take me out (why I’m starting over right now). I’ve also gotten out of myself by working with others. It doesn’t cure the depression, but it does keep me sane and sober if I choose to be of service.

2 Likes
#7

For me, its a constant reminder of how good things are, compared to what they used to be, in certain situations.
Those little wins are always there, even if you have to sometimes look for them and remind yourself how amazing they are.

1 Like
#8

Thank you :heart:

#9

Thank you. Trust story

#10

I know that Lady is so nice huh? Hahah Amanda.. I told you!!

1 Like
#11

Oh and, Its a balancing.. you can always listen to a meeting every now and then or on a routine on zoom you don't even have to sit still for it just put it on and like while you're getting ready for work or somethin

1 Like
#12

I was gonna suggest this.

#13

Always remember how far you've come and why.

Remember 12 step is also not for everyone, it wasn't the path for me. Find your own way.

2 Likes
#14

Connecting with my higher power. Talking to those in recovery. Get some phone numbers :+1:

1 Like
#15

I know a lot of people that start working through the steps again. I also find physical activity and being with people helpful. And I also have found antidepressants help.

#16

Well definitely already on the antidepressants lol . But yes I plan to redo the steps

#17

Hi Tracy! I just try to surround myself with people that are either in recovery or are spiritually fit. I try to recognize the things in others that I seem to lack and get to know them as best as I can. I’ve managed to forge some amazing relationships this way. So unlike the superficial and hollow relationships I had with fellow party animals!!!!

1 Like
#18

Perfect advice. Thank you so much

#19

Anytime Tracy!!

#20

Tracy, how often do you attend meetings? Do you have a sponsor? Do you hold a service position within your home group?

I ask, because I found my recovery routine getting a little flat, and my restless brain living in the past and future instead of the present. And my solution was back to basics. Back to meetings. Calling my sponsor. In the big book instead of Facebook. I listen to recovery podcasts. I relisten to Joe and Charlie. Sandy Beach.

Sure enough, my brain quieted down and a smile crept back across my face. I unwound and surrendered. I chair meetings. I go to the bi-monthly corrections facility meeting. I go to group conscience. Sure enough, emotional sobriety returned pretty quickly when I did the work.

1 Like
#21

My meetings have been very limited due to my work schedule and my husbands and having a toddler. But I definitely need to figure out a way to get going again.

1 Like