Addiction Recovery New Year’s Resolutions
As the clock strikes 12 on midnight, a new year is upon us filled with endless possibilities about the better person we hope to be and all the goals we hope to achieve this upcoming year. But for those of us in addiction recovery, New Year’s resolutions are more than an annual tradition; they are a very important tool in our long-term recovery process. For the next 365 days, we will reflect on these resolutions and remember the reasons we set them in place. In order to be successful, our addiction recovery resolutions must be attainable, realistic and timely. The 7 resolutions Silver Linings Recovery Center has highlighted below are meant to inspire you and guide you through another year of successful sobriety.
7 New Year’s Resolutions for People in Addiction Recovery
Celebrate successes. Every day look at how far you’ve come on your path to long-term sobriety. Of course there will be challenges along the way, but resolve to focus on all successes – no matter how small.
Ask for help. Addiction is a disease, triggered and controlled by brain functions far beyond your control. If you feel the urge the use, call your sponsor. If you’re having an off day, call a supportive recovery friend. You will need help through this journey, your loved ones & recovery support groups are here to help you whenever you ask.
Learn a new sober hobby. Navigating through a sober life means finding new interests that do not involve drugs and alcohol. Try as many hobbies as you can before you find one (or more) you genuinely enjoy: cooking classes, painting, music, art galleries, museums, bowling – there are so many new activities for you to explore.
Perform one act of kindness daily. When you’re in an addiction it is impossible to focus on the needs of others, but being in recovery demands that you understand how to be of service to yourself and others. Small acts of kindness like volunteering at a soup kitchen, helping your neighbor move or playing with animals at the local shelter will boost your self-confidence and generate a stronger relationship with your community.
Exercise your mind & body. Exercise will vastly improve your quality of life. Weight lifting and cardio will help your sobriety by improving your overall health, reduce anxiety & depression and help you sleep better. If you commit to working on your physique this year, be sure to include your mind’s health in your fitness goals. Journaling, meditation or yoga will have a positive effect on the health of your mind and spirit.
Attend new meetings. In recovery, it is important to maintain and build your support system. If you’re not already attending meetings, one of your addiction recovery resolutions can be to find one in your area and go twice per week. If you currently have a regular meeting you attend, try branching out to a different location or a new meeting altogether. Silver Linings Recovery Center is partners with dozens of local treatment for addiction resources we can connect you with.
Stay positive. If you’re having an off day or feeling overwhelmed it can be easy to slip back into feelings of bitterness, negativity and frustration. This year, do your best to channel your emotions through positivity: a happy song, a positive motto or uplifting poem are all great ways to emphasis positivity.
Resolutions for Long-Term Sobriety
While no two journeys through long-term recovery are the same, we hope our list of resolutions can provide a good foundation to create your own list of sobriety goals for 2020. Whether you’re in early recovery or have 15 years of continuous sobriety, it is important to continue to set realistic goals for yourself and be proud of all your successes. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, please reach out to Silver Linings Recovery Center today. Our addiction treatment center can help with any addiction you’re struggling with in a safe and peaceful environment. For a confidential consultation, please call 844-546-4644 today.
