Weekly Quote:

“Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.” ~ Victor Frankl

Contemplation:

~ What to do, what to do what to do…..THAT my lovelies, is the real question isn’t it; that moment when the thought to drink, drug, or act out hatches like a starving baby bird begging for nutrients and nurturing…..that moment when we are challenged to delay gratification for the big picture……shit……

Historically, perhaps the entirety of the dialogue has been (and please sing along if you know the lyrics)  “fuck it”…… and within those few letters encompasses an entirety of heartbreak, impulse, and ambivalence. Having said that, we may choose to go with it (the familiar) because it’s what we know despite the very real knowledge that it just might end us. And yet we persist and even fight for it, but why? Why do we pay so much? 

Because as we have discussed thusfar, it serves a purpose – a purpose that has absolutely nothing to do with substances at all – and we will continue to explore. But to get to THAT part, we must first be able to resist the poison that nukes our chances and learn we can make better decisions. So…..how do we NOT do that voodoo that we do? And please remember….like anything….the more you practice, the easier it becomes…..

Tip for the Week:

~  Building on the raising awareness we have been practicing – can we try putting it into action while having compassion for ourselves to support the big picture? Here are some tried and true techniques that have a great success rate. Please ignore past perceived failures; they are all necessary data that inform you on a continuum. You got this….

When the thought comes to do “the thing” that brings you to our little group, please consider the following:

Internal Strategies:
~ Mindfulness and Self-awareness: Practice mindfulness to recognize the onset of cravings. Understanding your triggers and bodily sensations can empower you to manage them effectively. Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or grounding exercises can be particularly beneficial.Box Breathing!

~ Positive Self-talk: Engage in positive self-talk to combat negative and craving-inducing thoughts. Remind yourself of your strengths, past successes, and the reasons for your commitment to recovery. Consider using affirmations or mantras that resonate with your personal recovery goals.

~ Visualization and Future Thinking: Visualize the positive outcomes of resisting cravings. Focusing on long-term benefits can strengthen your resolve. Keep your future goals in mind, and remember how staying sober aligns with achieving these goals.

External Strategies:
~ Support System Activation: Reach out to a supportive friend, family member, or support when you feel a craving. Engaging can provide immediate reinforcement and understanding.

~ Engage in a Distraction or Alternative Activity: Dive into a hobby, physical activity, or any task that can divert your attention from the craving. Have a list of enjoyable “go-to” activities ready for these moments.

~ Change of Environment: Consider changing your environment if it triggers cravings. Moving to a different location or having a safe, go-to place where you feel relaxed can significantly reduce the intensity of cravings.

Practice – and be kind to yourself as you do – guess what? You deserve it – despite everything, why? Because you were given this challenge not as punishment for your character, as it is indiscriminate. You are worth the opportunity to show yourself your strength and courage. AND….you are not alone.