Life in recovery is often liberating, joyous, and brings much-needed peace. But in addition to these positive and affirming feelings, many others may come with it.
When considering past behavior, actions, and time wasted, there may be self-loathing or humiliation. But these feelings of self-resentment are a trap, and work must be done to alleviate the shame and establish pride. Set forgiveness as the foundation and commit to compassion and self-love.
While it is essential to reflect, take responsibility for our actions, and commit to doing better, we must avoid shaming ourselves. Negative self-talk and harmful narratives need to end. These things will only leave us stuck in the past, and it is time to write a new story. Firm limits and boundaries must be set against anyone that constantly shames and stigmatizes us.
Enjoy the Progress
Instead, the focus must be on how far we have come. We should feel pride that we have been able to transform and save our lives. No one can take that pride, self-awareness, and sense of ownership away!
Additionally, there must continuously be a process of forgiveness. Facing the totality of what has been done and what has been lost can be painful and triggering.
There may be a slide into patterns of self-hatred, but that cycle must be broken. As soon as there is an opportunity to forgive oneself, it must be taken.
Forgive Yourself
“I forgive myself” should be repeated as often as needed until we believe it. Set forgiveness as the foundation for the future. No one can keep you in the trap of feeling bad if you have forgiven yourself.
Throughout each day, remember to exercise self-compassion and self-love. Remember that mental health and addiction struggles are often secondary to trauma.
Whatever coping skills and defense mechanisms we developed were the result of our body, mind, and heart doing the best they could. Now, it’s time to learn new tools for healing.
Through this new learning process, there are opportunities to practice compassion, love, tenderness, and patience. Soon these empowering and life-affirming traits will become internalized.
At Alta Loma Transformational Living, you will meet knowledgeable, compassionate professionals that understand addiction in all its forms. Alta Loma uses an integrative and holistic approach to treat addiction and mental health issues. No treatment is one-size-fits-all, where you will have a team of experts prepared to create your customized treatment plan.
We offer care for your mind, body, and spirit, so that you can heal from the inside out and look forward to a lifetime of sobriety and wellness. If you are ready to take the first step in your recovery, please call us at 866-457-3843.
