With the start of 2021 comes the opportunity to create a fresh start; to start new habits, make new goals, and manifest new patterns in our lives. For some of us that might mean eating healthier and working out more consistently. For some of us that might mean cleaning out that back room that has become the “clutter drawer” of the house. Well for those in your lives who are battling addiction, the most important resolution for this new year is to start the year and end the year sober. Here are some tips you, or someone you know might be able to utilize in order to keep this most important goal in 2021:
- Find Focus.
- Keeping your focus on your goals is one of the most important steps in keeping any resolution. An important part of finding your focus is to create goals that are attainable and measurable, as opposed to goals that are large and much broader. Another key part of finding focus is seeking out activities or practices that help you stay focused when it really matters. For example, such things could be journaling or practicing affirmations and mantras.
- Seek Support.
- One of the most key parts of recovery is having supportive accountability. We might not know exactly what 2020 will bring, but we do know that it is going to bring all of us our own kinds of challenges. Whenever those challenges arise, having a solid support system around you is a foundational aspect of sustaining your recovery.
- Hire New Habits.
- Creating new routines and patterns of behavior is a great way to stay sober while pursuing recovery. Abusing substances of different kinds takes a lot of time, energy, and focus. When those substances are removed from us, we end up with a lot of free space to fill with new, healthy habits. Things like exercising consistently, practicing a new skill, or even getting involved in religious activities could have a positive impact on your recovery.
- Process the Past.
- Sometimes a big part of creating new habits is learning how to avoid your old behaviors and patterns. Processing your past triggers, mistakes, and losses can ultimately free you of a lot of different toxic thoughts and emotions. This process, however, can be dangerous when it comes to your recovery and should not be taken lightly. If you are planning on processing your past, you might consider doing so in the presence of a mental health professional.
- Celebrate Success.
- Progress is progress, no matter how small. No matter what form of success you find in your recovery journey, celebrate it! Focus on the small steps of growth that you are taking, because every small step is worth acknowledging and celebrating.
We all know how difficult it can be to keep the promises we all make to ourselves each January. By the time Winter fades into Spring, so many of our resolutions have faded away into mere thoughts of the past. If you or any of your loved ones have ever or are currently battling addiction, then you know that this is a daily struggle for them. Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions about what options you and your family have when it comes to recovery.
