Sober Living Chicago
2017 is finally here, and for many women on the path to sobriety, it is a time of deep reflection. With the new year comes new goals and a renewed dedication to your sobriety. However, like many New Year’s resolutions, that dedication can wane as the weeks pass. It becomes harder and harder to keep up with meetings, remain positive, and resist the temptations around you.
Maintaining sobriety, and surrounding yourself with the necessary support to do so, is one of the most important things you can do for yourself. The good news is that many of the resources you need for a healthy and happy 2017 can be found in a women’s sober living environment, and the better news is that the rest can be found within yourself.
Here are a few ways you can start your year off right in a women’s sober living home.
Find Your Gratitude
Gratitude is one of the foundations of steadfast sobriety. Staying sober is tough. You may be riddled with painful memories, guilt, and cravings, and every day can feel like a battle. But looking past the pain and finding things to be grateful for right now allows you to shift your perspective in a powerful way.
You are clean and sober! You are alive and safe! You have a second chance to make your life amazing and to experience this new year and future years in recovery. This is something to be grateful for, indeed.
Cultivate More Gratitude
If you’re struggling to find your gratitude, get back to basics. Start writing a daily gratitude list, if you aren’t already. Now is the time to get grateful for the simple things.
It’s cold outside, right? You are in a warm, cozy home. You have food and clothing. You aren’t in jail or on the streets. You are clean and sober, and that means you get to make good decisions for yourself and your loved ones, from now on. Celebrate all of those things.
Be of Service to Those Around You
If there is one surefire way to enjoy your new year more it is to be of service. There are so many ways you can do this. Reach out to your housemates. Check in with them; they may be struggling.
Did you get clean and sober via an addiction treatment center? See if you can participate in holiday events as an alumnus. Attend in-house meetings if possible, or go support other women still in treatment.
Finally, look into volunteering. Homeless shelters, kitchens, animal shelters, and other programs can always use your help.
Only Focus on What You Can Control
Maybe you couldn’t afford the presents you would have liked for your family, or maybe you couldn’t spend the holidays with the people you love. While your feelings about this are absolutely valid, if these things are not in your immediate control, then you must practice acceptance and focus on what you can control.
Remember, each day that you spend clean and sober puts you closer to whatever goals you may have. That might mean getting a better job or reuniting with family. Have faith, do the footwork, and let it go.
Participate in Your Recovery
You should be participating in your recovery year-round, but the new year is an especially important time to reinvigorate your commitment to your sobriety. Are recovery groups in your area planning any events? Are there women who need your support? How can you get more connected?
Celebrate Your Accomplishments
The new year is not just a time to think about what you want to achieve but also a time to look back at what you already have achieved. Take the time to celebrate your victories and the victories of others you know who are working toward sobriety. You have worked hard and come so far, and that progress should not go unrecognized.
As 2017 gets off to a start, think of the year ahead and set your intentions to continue with your recovery. With the help of a women’s sober living home and a positive mindset, you can make this year your best yet.
If you would like to learn more about sober living homes for women, contact us today.