Small Steps Lead to Lasting Sobriety: A Mindful Approach
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Chapter 1: The Power of Small Steps
Every small step towards sobriety counts.
"I tackle sobriety with the same mindset I had in sports. It’s all about commitment. You have to gear up, show up, and aim for victory." ~ Molly Bloom
This week, we will explore the first principle in achieving our sobriety goals: the importance of evaluating our decision-making processes in the moment.
How often have you jeopardized a period of hard-earned sobriety by convincing yourself that just one drink wouldn’t hurt?
Until it does.
As Carl Jung suggested, we must look inward to realize that transformation begins from within. Daily changes in our behavior are essential.
By consciously integrating small actions into our routines—like opting for an extra glass of water (even if it's just one!) or committing to a non-negotiable five-minute meditation—we make larger changes more attainable.
This realization brings us to the understanding that we alone bear the responsibility for making necessary changes in our lives. No one else can do it for us.
I recognize how challenging it can be when, halfway through the day, our determination begins to falter and we think, "Just one small drink with lunch won't hurt." But will it?
The afternoon may find us waking up with a parched mouth and a throbbing head. We might decide to have dinner and drink a bit more, convincing ourselves, "This will be the last time—tonight, or ever."
"I’ll just have a quick sip before my meal."
Before long, that quick sip turns into an empty bottle!
Then, another two bottles later, we find ourselves reaching for that last glass we saved, just in case.
The next morning arrives with a familiar thought: "Today, I won’t drink." Yet, every part of us is yearning for that drink to help ease into the day. And that’s a tough morning.
Can you pinpoint the issue with that statement?
Our subconscious doesn’t grasp negatives. Thus, we inadvertently give ourselves permission to focus on drinking again, and we start plotting how and when we can safely acquire the next bottle.
Every choice we make carries weight and has a ripple effect beyond the present moment. Especially when approached with clarity and accountability for the consequences. A decade from now, your life will reflect the decisions you make today.
What choice can you make today that will lead to a better tomorrow? Just for today, aim for a brighter future.
"It doesn't matter how slowly you go, as long as you don't stop." ~ Confucius
Each Sip Today Shapes Our Tomorrow — Created with Bing.
Thank you for reading. If you're interested in learning more about my journey to sobriety, feel free to explore further.
Chapter 2: Insights from Early Sobriety
The following video offers valuable insights into the challenges of early sobriety, discussing the realities faced by those on this journey.
Chapter 3: Long-Term Sobriety Strategies
In this video, discover effective strategies for maintaining long-term sobriety, including relapse prevention techniques that can help you stay on track.