If you’re an addict in recovery, you probably know by now that there is just far too much literature to read through. There is no quick fix for recovery, but information doesn’t always have to come in the form of a thick bound book. Why can’t someone just give you a few simple tips to start you on your way to finding the new sober you? Well, that may not be as simple as it sounds, but here are a few things to keep in mind as your start your journey through a sober world.
Some Key Steps For Your Mind
- Continue to remind yourself of your reason for changing
- Remember your past attempts (if there are any), and try to determine some things that worked for you vs. some of the things that didn’t work so well.
- Set goals for yourself. Idle hands truly are the devil’s playground.
- Identify and remove triggers from your life. Anything that reminds you of your addiction, try to remove or at least limit it if possible.
- Verbalize your sobriety to your friends and family. They will hold you accountable for your future actions.
Check Your Self-Esteem
When you first get through with a rehabilitation program, your self esteem may be lacking in some departments. Rehab doesn’t come with a bunch of warm fuzzy feelings attached. You should expect to feel a little low for a while afterwards, but don’t allow yourself to wallow. Know that not everything in the world around you will change at once, and allow yourself to take things slow. Remember to forgive yourself, and give yourself another chance to succeed. Self-esteem will build in time.
Exercise & Improve Your Diet
It’s not just a ploy to get you to eat healthy food. A balanced diet really does make you feel better! Take a thorough inventory of what you are putting into your body. An addict in recovery needs nourishment. Your body needs the tools to repair all the damage your addiction has done. Why not do something nice for yourself? Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean meats, and you can be assured to feel like a new you within just a couple of weeks. Also, just a small amount of exercise daily will help your body to function as it should and help you to sleep more sound at night.