Building Clarity for a Strong Foundation in Long-Term Recovery
Relapse is the main challenge in the lifestyle of recovery. Relapse (any harmful behaviors towards self/others, including substance use) can happen, but it doesn’t have to be a cycle- I once heard “a slip doesn’t have to turn into a slide.” Relapse can be incredibly discouraging, so you’ll learn lifestyle adjustments and pivots that can help you stay on a path of long-term health and well-being- One day at a time! From intentional living to managing triggers and maintaining healthy relationships, you will learn and apply some key relapse prevention tips that can strengthen your confidence, improve quality of life, increase resilience, and build a better life.
Foundational Truths of Relapse Prevention
Clarity: Ever try driving with a foggy windshield? I sure have! I once had a car that didn’t have the windshield vent working, and it was awful in Midwest winters trying to drive. I tried rolling my windows down, using rubbing alcohol, constantly wiping the condensation away with my hands and windshield wipers. It was ridiculous how much effort went into driving with constant fog and condensation. Lo and behold, I learned that foggy windshields don’t produce a result clear enough to drive. Groundbreaking, isn’t it? When it comes to the first foundational truth of relapse prevention, you must grow very clear about why you are going on this incredible, life-changing journey of recovery. Grow very clear about why you are taking this journey, what this journey means to you, and what it will help you to achieve, even in the smallest details. Also find clarity about the effort involved. This clarity of truth helps you repeatedly choose what is needed for your sobriety in the present moment. Here are some questions to help you grow in clarity about your choice for wellness:
- Even if I don’t believe I have much self-worth right now, I know there is something in me that wants a positive change in my life. What am I seeing for my life? What am I wanting to feel? What am I desiring to release and connect with that is real and authentic for me? No answer is too small or too big. This is about connecting with that thing deep within you called Hope. Connect with it and keep it alive. Hope is giving you clarity right now. Let it speak to you in this moment, even if it’s scary to hope. Disappointment is the foggy windshield. Hope is giving clarity about what’s possible ahead. It’s the best of you, within you, speaking to you, right now.
