In Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), the first step is “We admitted we were powerless over alcohol and that our lives had become unmanageable.” This means admitting that alcohol is negatively impacting your thinking, your feelings, and your actions. Admitting your powerlessness over alcohol is a great step towards a positive direction.
Tell Someone When You Want to Drink
Being in recovery does not mean that you stop thinking about drinking. It is important to remember that there is no need to be hard on yourself. You are at the start of recovery, so it is still a new routine to find ways to avoid alcohol.
If you let a loved one know that you are having a hard time with your sobriety, you are admitting that to yourself. We are all humans that come with our own struggles. If stopping yourself from drinking is a struggle, it is nothing to be ashamed of.
Speak at an AA Meeting
Some AA meetings give everyone the chance to speak. When you are ready, you can speak in front of a bunch of people who are in the same position as you. While it may be scary the first time you push yourself to speak, you will feel confident knowing you are admitting to a group of your peers that you recognize your powerlessness. They will be proud of you knowing you have accomplished this important step, and you will be proud of yourself.
Speak to Your Sponsor
If you sneak a drink and you lie to others about that, you are back to your old tricks of lying to get what you want. It is normal to relapse while you are in recovery. If that moment comes, do not be afraid to tell someone about it. Give your sponsor a call as they have been in the same position as you before. They will not speak to you in judgment. They will tell you what you need to do going forward.
Make an Appointment With a Counselor
Not only does the first step mean you are powerless to stop drinking, but that you cannot fight this battle by yourself. A counselor can give you effective tools for a successful recovery and another phone number to call if you feel like drinking. By admitting that you have a problem with alcohol, you can take steps in the right direction towards sobriety.
The first step you learn in Alcoholic Anonymous (AA) is to admit you are powerless over alcohol. This way, you can admit that you have a problem instead of living in denial. All problems have solutions, and reaching out to your peers in AA, a counselor, a friend, or a sponsor can make a difference towards sobriety. At Alta Loma, we understand the importance of sobriety, and we are here to help you. Located in Georgetown, Texas, we can provide you with 12-Step programs, individualized therapy, life coping skills, and more. Call us at (866) 457-3843 to learn more.
