First of all, good for you for wanting to live a substance free life. Your life can improve dramatically from now on just from your initial desire, and from following these simple tips. Focus on finding help for yourself. Depending upon your needs, you may benefit from going to a 28-day treatment facility, alcohol and drug counseling, and attending recovery group meetings.
People who have been through what you are doing now, recommend 90 meetings in 90 days. 90 in 90 can be likened to a jumpstart in recovery. You may wonder how you are going to find the time for all those meetings. Meetings are scheduled in the morning, at noon and in the evenings all over the country.
Focus on the here and now and take proactive steps like clearing out all your old bottles of alcohol and or drugs and drug paraphernalia from your home. Make some affirming signs to tape up on mirrors, in the kitchen and in your car. You can write whatever you like on them as a reminder, Today I am not going to drink or do drugs.
Get outside and experience the healing properties of nature. When was the last time you looked at the stars or noticed what phase the moon was in? If it’s winter, find a plant center or a florist to poke into just for the smell of flowers and the earth.
You’re not going to change overnight, but gradually you may come to recognize behaviors that no longer work for you. Be open to change. Take pride in your appearance. Sometimes how we appear reflects how we feel inside. If we dress sloppily, then what are we mirroring about ourselves and our attitude about sobriety and recovery. You don’t have to go on a shopping spree, you just have to make an effort.
Think positively, and don’t waste time worry about relapsing. Worrying may reinforce insecurities, which could lead to erroneous thoughts about how good drinking and drugging used to make you feel. If you find yourself in a stressful situation, then learn to excuse yourself and walk away. Self care, whether emotionally or physically is paramount to living an upbeat sober life.
If you make a mistake, own it and move on. No one is perfect. You simply did the best you could with the resources you have. Next time maybe you’ll think a situation through more thoroughly before you act. Practice forgiving yourself, praising yourself, and being grateful for all you have achieved by staying sober one day at a time.
Cypress Lake Recovery offers treatment for addiction in a peaceful, remote, oxygen-rich environment. The program encompasses holistic addiction therapy for the mind, body, and soul. The focus is on physical, mental, and emotional well-being by generating the balance of life-enriching treatment, wellness, and healthy, sober, sustainable relationships. Call us to get started: 409-331-2204
