Principles Before Personalities in Recovery

Posted on February 20, 2017 by MainAdmin

Recovery and the road to sober living is fraught with distractions and obstacles, and sometimes it’s easy to use another person’s personality, living situation, or other concern for your own struggles with staying on track. However, working with a support group like those provided by 12 Step programs means being able to look beyond just your own recovery and caring for the problems of others. Putting your focus on the principles of your addiction treatment group, instead of just reacting to personality clashes, can help you and others get more out of your time together.

The Principle of Principles

The last part of the 12 Principles of Alcoholics Anonymous specific states that it’s essential to focus on recovery above all else, with a mention of how staying anonymous helps you achieve that focus.  Focusing too much on the personality involved in a story about addiction, and not staying true to the principles, is a violation of the nature of the trusting bond built between members of a fellowship.

Understanding Personality Interactions

Of course, it’s still important to examine the personalities involved in a group to maximize positive interactions. Each person must do the hard work of examining their own personalities for behaviors that are not encouraging or supportive, but it’s important to stay focused on oneself rather than to start picking apart your fellow group members. Returning your mind to the principles themselves when someone’s behavior is making you uncomfortable will help you decide if it’s just a clash of values or something that needs to be reported to an organizer.

Following the 12th Tradition means putting your recovery ahead of your desire to be recognized for your other accomplishments or skills. You may be a business owner or a famous musician, but everyone is equal when you’re in the group and discussing your challenges and triumphs over addiction. Approaching this kind of group interaction with humility and a desire to genuinely try to empathize with others is a great way to stay away from temptations. For more help, visit us at My 12 Step Store for everything you need.

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Ways to Say I Love You

Posted on February 13, 2017 by MainAdmin

Ways to Say I Love You

“I Love You.”  Why are those three little words so hard to get out? If you are finding it difficult to mutter that phrase, maybe it is time to show that special person how you feel. Here are some simple ways to say I love you without really saying anything at all.

Leave a Note

When words are hard to speak, try writing down your thoughts. Notes are a simple way to say what you are feeling.

Put Your Someone Special First

When you are in a relationship, the time for selfishness is over. One of the best ways to let someone know you care is to put them first. Maybe you are in the mood to go out on the town, but your significant other is tired. Run a bath, cook dinner and rent a movie. Showing you care about his/her wants and feelings can go a long way to building a better relationship.

Be Free to Be Me

Relationships are not always easy.  That is why it is so important to be yourself. When you allow the people in your life to be themselves, you send a clear message that you accept them just the way they are. This is especially important when dealing with those new at sober living.

Play Together

Life can be stressful, especially when sober living is new to you (or your partner). What better way to show how much you care than simply having some fun. Loosen up. Get silly and enjoy each other’s company.

Do Something for the One You Love

Performing acts of service is a wonderful way to say I love you. Whether it is cleaning out the garage, filling your partner’s gas tank, scraping their windshield on a snowy morning, bringing home his/her favorite snack or taking a breath before nagging or grumbling, these are simple, yet effective ways to express your love.

Get Physical

Everyone needs touch. Offering a hug, laying on a sultry kiss, or even giving your partner a massage, are all physical ways to say I love you. Holding hands, cuddling and smooching are also good ways to express your feelings.

Give Your Partner Meaningful Gifts

Why does one person want a diamond necklace for a gift while another is thrilled with getting a new piece of furniture or great new book? It all depends on what someone considers meaningful and from the heart. It really is the thought that counts when surprising your partner with a gift. Even something small and inexpensive can be an invitation to romance if there is real meaning behind it. Knowing what a loved one needs or wants is a commitment to knowing about your partner. Valentine’s day or any day when looking for a thoughtful gift for someone overcoming addiction, check out www.my12stepstore.com for all kinds of gifts that anyone in recovery will love.

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How to Readjust to Life Without Drugs or Alcohol

Posted on February 6, 2017 by MainAdmin

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When you’re working on addiction recovery, one of the biggest challenges is learning to live without drugs or alcohol. Making changes to your daily life and setting healthy goals for yourself can help you overcome this challenge. Keep the following tips in mind to help you adjust to sober living.

Create a Reliable Support System

Having a support system in place helps ensure that you have someone dependable to turn to when you’re struggling. Get phone numbers and call people, this support system can include trusted family members and friends, as well as your sponsor and fellow support group members. These people should be willing to offer you comfort and support that can make it easier for you to adapt to a healthier life. Avoid relying on those who you used to do drugs or drink alcohol with, since this can end up triggering a relapse instead of encouraging you to stay sober.

Find New Hobbies

Keeping yourself occupied is a highly effective way to adapt to a new life that doesn’t involve addictive substances. If you have a hobby that you were previously engaged in but lost interest during your addiction, consider picking it back up again. If you need new hobbies, you’ll find a wide range available depending on your personal interests and skills. From photography and gardening to learning a new language or cooking, look for a hobby that catches your interest. You can work on this hobby at your own pace, or consider taking a class or workshop if you want expert guidance and a chance to meet others who share your interest.

Get Involved with Sober Activities

Interacting with other people while pursuing a sober activity can help you connect with others in healthy ways and boost your emotional well-being. Look for activities that don’t involve any drugs or alcohol, such as joining a community sports team or training to run in a marathon. You can also do activities on your own, such as going for hikes in the woods or doing other outdoor recreational activities. Other sober activities to keep in mind include artistic endeavors, such as writing or drawing, and volunteering at a local nonprofit organization in order to help those in need. Volunteer to help with sober conventions and be of service in 12-step meetings. As you meet goals on your way to readjusting to living without drugs or alcohol, reward yourself with a gift. Please visit My 12 Step Store to view our selection of gifts that are perfect for sober living.

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My 12 Step Store Valentine Gift Guide 2017

Posted on January 30, 2017 by MainAdmin

My 12 Step Store Valentine Gift Guide 2017

Your most stylish guide to the top 24 best recovery gifts for him or her living the journey One Day at a Time in recovery. The best way to share your support and love for anyone from a friend to loved one in 12-step recovery. We recommend you shop early we do the rest for you. Happy Valentine’s day Just for Today

Crystalized glitter Pink medallion

Exquisite Crystalized glitter Pink medallion with Swarovski crystals – also comes in several other colors and styles

http://www.my12stepstore.com/product2532.html

14k Gold, AA Symbol Pendant, Circle of 22 diamonds

14k Gold, AA Symbol Pendant, Circle of 22 diamonds with Genuine Amethyst Triangle

http://www.my12stepstore.com/product2530.html

Happy Valentine’s Day Chocolate Bar

Our famous Happy Valentine’s Day Chocolate Bar with your own Custom Message

http://www.my12stepstore.com/Happy-Valetines-Day-Chocolate-Bar-Custom-Message.html

Heart God box

Handmade wood Heart God box

http://www.my12stepstore.com/Heart-God-Box.html

AA Sterling Pendant

Dazzling 26 Cubic Zirconia AA Sterling Pendant

http://www.my12stepstore.com/Alcoholics-Anonymous-Sterling-Silver-Jewelry-AA-Cubic-Zirconia-Pendant.html

NA Sterling Pendant

Dazzling 26 Cubic Zirconia NA Sterling Pendant

http://www.my12stepstore.com/NA-Cubic-Zirconia-Pendant.html

handcrafted heart made of blue glass and pewter

Beautifully handcrafted heart made of blue glass and pewter with etched serenity prayer

http://www.my12stepstore.com/Blue-Glass-Serenity-Prayer-Paperweight.html

Sober Kisses Heart Mints Sober Kisses Heart Mints

Our signature Sober Kisses Heart Mints – Red also comes in Rainbow

http://www.my12stepstore.com/Sober-Kisses-Heart-Mints.html

http://www.my12stepstore.com/Rainbow-Sober-Kisses.html

Sterling Silver Cuff Bracelet

Elegant Sterling Silver Cuff Bracelet engraved with Serenity Prayer on outside –  for her

http://www.my12stepstore.com/Sterling-Silver-Serenity-Prayer-Small-Cuff-Bracelet.html

Sterling Silver Cuff Bracelet engraved with Serenity Prayer on inside

Elegant Sterling Silver Cuff Bracelet engraved with Serenity Prayer on inside –  for him or Unisex

http://www.my12stepstore.com/Sterling-Silver-Serenity-Prayer-Mens-Cuff-Bracelet.html

AA Double Book Cover with Serenity Prayer

AA Double Book Cover with Serenity Prayer in many colors – shown PINK

http://www.my12stepstore.com/AA-Big-Book-And-12-x-12-DOUBLE-Book-Cover-PINK.html

Crystallized Bill & Bob medallion

FANCY Crystallized Bill & Bob medallion in different colors – shown is Red on Red

http://www.my12stepstore.com/Ruby-Red-Bill-Bob-Bling-Tri-Plate-Medallion-with-Swarovski-Crystals.html

Worthy of Love

Worthy of Love Daily Meditations on loving Ourselves and Others

http://www.my12stepstore.com/Worthy-Of-Love-Daily-Meditation.htm

The More We Find Each other

Daily Meditations on The More We Find Each other

http://www.my12stepstore.com/The-More-We-Find-Each-Other.html

AA Heart Symbol Birth Stone Earrings

Sterling Silver AA Heart Symbol Birth Stone Earrings – you choose the birthstone or favorite color

http://www.my12stepstore.com/Sterling-Silver-AA-Heart-Symbol-Birth-Stone-Earrings.html

Wife Anniversary Medallion

Wife Anniversary Medallion that say’s “I love you”

http://www.my12stepstore.com/Wife-Anniversary-Medallion.html

Husband Anniversary Medallion

Husband Anniversary Medallion that say’s You’re Amazing

http://www.my12stepstore.com/Husband-Anniversary-Medallion.html

NA Unity Symbol Double Cover

NA Unity Symbol Double Cover IN MANY COLORS –  shown in Black

http://www.my12stepstore.com/NA-Unity-Symbol-Double-Cover-Black.html

NA Phoenix Medallion

New popular NA Phoenix Medallion also comes in years to celebrate recovery time.

http://www.my12stepstore.com/product2444.html

14k Gold Numeral Pendant

Celebrate with a 14k Gold Numeral Pendant from 1 to 99

http://www.my12stepstore.com/14k-Gold-Numeral-Pendant.html

Surrender Hand Made Pen

Surrender Hand Made Pen wrapped in Leather and metal

http://www.my12stepstore.com/Surrender-Hand-Made-Pen.html

AA RED Tri-Plate Enamel Recovery Medallion

CLASSIC AA RED Tri-Plate Enamel Recovery Medallion

http://www.my12stepstore.com/AA-RED-Tri-Plate-Enamel-Recovery-Medallion.html

AA Recovery Medallion in many gorgeous styles

AA Recovery Medallion in many gorgeous styles, colors and years – shown in Pink/Purple

http://www.my12stepstore.com/product2519.html

Valentine Gift Card in any amount emailed instantly to anyone you want

Valentine Gift Card in any amount emailed instantly to anyone you want

http://www.my12stepstore.com/cgi-bin/sc/order.cgi?storeid=*16b5e5d98a894102025ebf1ffa&cert=gift

 

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Get What You Want Out of the New Year: Simple Strategies for Sticking to Your Goals

Posted on January 23, 2017 by MainAdmin

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It’s a brand-new year! You have 365 days ahead – you want to make them count.  Things have started off great. You have beaten your addiction and are experiencing sober living. What’s next?

Setting resolutions are common in the New Year. What’s also common is getting sidetracked and forgetting those promises before February hits. So how can you get the most out of 2017? Here are some simple strategies to help you stick to your goals in the coming months.

Know What You Want

Give yourself a break and ditch other people’s expectations. This is the year for you to reach for your own stars. You’ve already faced your addiction; there is nothing you can’t accomplish. The key to reaching your goals is knowing what they are. Think about what you want the coming months to look like and write it down. That way, when you are feeling discouraged, you can go back and remind yourself why you have chosen this journey.

Make a Plan

It is easy to get sidetracked. A day can go by quickly leaving you with nothing accomplished. Make a plan for getting where you want to be. If going back to school is your plan, then write down everything you need to do it: visit schools, pick a program, obtain financing, schedule classes, etc. Once you have created a basic roadmap you will know what to do next in your journey.

Break Big Goals into Smaller Ones

When what you want seems too overwhelming to achieve, break it down into smaller more attainable milestones. Maybe you dream of opening your own restaurant. Wow, now that’s a goal! Well, you must start somewhere, even if that is taking a cooking or business class. Small steps will get you closer to your destination. But, if you never start, you’ll never find your way home.

Get Inspired

When motivation is running low, find something to inspire you. Maybe your goal for this year is to move into your own apartment (or a nicer one). Look at some decorating magazines or visit a few open houses to reenergize you and give you the boost you need to move forward with your goal.

Enjoy the Feeling of Accomplishment

You fought addiction in the past because you loved the rush of the high. Allow yourself the freedom to experience life’s natural highs. Accomplishing even the smallest goal will give you a rush of relief, pride, confirmation and achievement. Let yourself get caught up in those feelings – you deserve it.

Reward Yourself

One of the main reasons many people ditch their New Year’s resolutions so soon is because they don’t let themselves experience success. Reward yourself regularly – it’s a great motivator. Want to lose 20 pounds this year? Then reward yourself with something small when you lose the first five. It doesn’t have to be anything big (maybe a bubble bath, a visit with a special friend, or even an afternoon off from your daily chores). Giving yourself that pat on the back for a job well done will give you the boost you need to keep going.

Whether we admit it or not, we all dream of making this year better than the last. Stop letting those goals become forgotten. Take the time this year to turn those dreams into a reality. You have worked hard and you deserve a good year. Now get out there and make one for yourself!

Now that you are free of addiction, it is more important than ever to set goals. For help in learning how to handle sober living, check out the resources at www.my12stepstore.com.

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Creating a Life You Can Love

Posted on January 16, 2017 by MainAdmin

What’s holding you back? In the past you may have blamed your addiction on keeping you an arm’s length from accomplishing your dreams.  But now that you are in recovery, that excuse is gone. It is time to figure out how to create the kind of life that excites and motivates you. It’s time to love your life!

What Drives You?

Fear can be crippling. If you allow it, it can strip you of your ability to move forward after addition and grab ahold of the life you deserve. Considered “the greatest human curse” fear can stop even the strongest among us from getting what we want. When we allow the fear to take hold, we take away our ability to even try. Is fear standing in your way? Don’t let it. Remember, you have faced your addiction, stood your ground and won the battle. Fear has nothing on you. It is time to take those first steps toward happiness.

Dare to Dream

Life may have beaten you down in the past, but you are experiencing sober living now and you are free to dream, so make those dreams big!  Without dreams you will find yourself stuck in today’s reality – forever. If you want more out of life you are going to have to dream for more.  Dreams are the starting point toward action. Without a dream, you have nothing to strive for.  Dreams are what we use to propel ourselves forward in the journey to building a newer and better future.  So what are your dreams? It is time to acknowledge them.

Believe That the Impossible Truly Is Possible

Your addiction presented plenty of roadblocks in your journey through life. Yet, you overcame each one and today are embracing a newer, sober existence. So why do you still allow yourself to be thwarted by negative thoughts and an unbelief that you can accomplish anything? You have already accomplished a great thing: sobriety.  Now it is time to believe in the impossible.

Have you ever had the thought, “I’d love to, but…?”  That “but” told you that you couldn’t accomplish what you wanted. Nothing more than an internal excuse, this nasty three-letter word can create a brick wall that stops you before you ever get started. The only way to get through the blockade is to change those negative thoughts into positive ones. But, how? Here are a few basic tips to get you started:

  • Dwell on the Positive- Stop giving those negative thoughts and attitudes all of the power. Think “I can” more than “I can’t.”
  • Expect Success- When you believe in your abilities and believe that you can (and will) get what you are after, an amazing thing happens – you get it! Expecting to get what you set out to achieve helps you focus on the end goal without the worry of failure.
  • Visualize the Future That You Want- When you visualize your dreams clearly, and concisely, you will attain it.
  • Keep Your Eye on the Prize- Wanting to achieve something is one thing but having the resolve and determination to get it done is another.  Without the determination to work toward your goals, you will never see your dreams materialize.
  • Ditch the Excuses- There isn’t anything that can hold you back if you are willing to do what’s necessary to succeed.

Living a Life You Love

You deserve to wake up every day to a life that is happy, fulfilling and even exciting. You have worked hard to get back on track. Keep the momentum going by learning how to take back control. Learn to think more positively and create the kind of life you have always dreamed of.  For more resources on living a sober life, check out the inspirational products at My 12 Step Store.

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Best Solutions for Post-Holiday Blues

Posted on January 9, 2017 by MainAdmin

The holidays are meant to be a time of happiness, yet many people suffer from depression during the holiday season, which brings about feelings of loneliness and sadness. But, for those who are in recovery, the symptoms of depression may increase, which commonly triggers a relapse. The holidays, unfortunately, often evokes overwhelming stress and busier days that do not leave time for the things that help to keep sober living less overwhelming. Post-holidays may be difficult for someone in recovery to get over the stress and depression they experienced during the past month or so leading up to and during the holidays. The good news is there are things you can do to help relieve the symptoms of the post-holiday blues.

Stick to Your Schedule

One of the most important things you can do is to stick with your recovery plan and regular routine, even when things get overly busy. Holiday plans and a busier schedule often make it easier to put off doing what you typically do as a part of your plan for sober living, but it is critical that regardless of how busy you are, to follow your plan. In fact, it is even better if you increase your meetings, especially if you are thinking about using. Create a day-by-day calendar for the holidays and do not stray from it.

Avoid Overindulging

During the holidays, you may find yourself surrounded by sweets and larger meals than you are not typically accustomed to having. When you aren’t used to indulging in heavy foods, sweets and caffeine, you may feel less energetic as well as depressed about the extra weight you may have gained or disappointed about breaking your routine, which may lead to thoughts of a relapse. Instead, make time to exercise, go easy on the sweets and eat healthy, well-balanced meals. It is important not to deprive yourself of a few treats, but remember that moderation is the key. Make sure to get plenty of rest to help avoid fatigue and try to plan ahead with holiday activities, such as shopping for gifts and entertaining.

Part of sober living is taking care of you. Remember to take some quiet time every day to meditate, go to a meeting and reach out to your spiritual advisor, sponsor or support group. Spending time with others in recovery is a great way for you to realize and remember your personal limits. Helping others is a great way to beat holiday depression, so this is a great time to do something nice for someone who may be less fortunate. Consider helping out at a local toy drive or food drive, or take food or blankets to the homeless or volunteer to help at a shelter.

During the holidays as well as after the holidays, is a great time to treat yourself to a gift. Visit My 12 Step Store to find the perfect gift to celebrate sober living.

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New Year’s Resolutions for People in Recovery

Posted on January 2, 2017 by MainAdmin

New Year's Resolutions for People in Recovery

The New Year is just around the corner, which means it is time to set your New Year’s resolutions. Making resolutions is difficult for almost anyone, including those who are in recovery. One of the biggest problems many people face when making resolutions is sticking to them, in fact, many people struggle even starting a resolution. When it comes to setting a goal for the New Year, a common mistake many people make is planning too far ahead and making hard to achieve goals. In reality, goals and resolutions should be made in the same manner those in recovery set goals…one day at a time. Here are some positive and exciting New Year’s resolutions that are ideal not only for those in recovery but for almost anyone.

Get Control of Your Stress

Instead of letting your stress control you, it’s time to take control of your stress. Sobriety is often difficult in itself, but when life gets in the way, it can make it difficult for someone in recovery to fight the stress. Whether your stress is caused by work, school or a traffic jam, there are ways to overcome it. Remember, living a happy, sober life means learning how to deal with stress, so make it your resolution to take control. Whether you find solace through mediation, yoga 12-step meetings or support groups, make it a goal to include these stress reducers in your life at least one extra time each week in the New Year.

Eat Healthier

Eating healthy is essential for healthy, sober living. Along with getting moderate exercise, the foods you eat can help you have a healthy mind and body. Unfortunately, many people with addictions neglected their health before their recovery, but the good news is you can change unhealthy eating. Make it a goal to eliminate one unhealthy snack from your diet each month, while adding one or two healthier food items. For example, if you eat chocolate bars on a daily basis, gradually eliminate them from your diet by only eating chocolate bars every other day, then twice a week, then once a week until you have completely eliminated them from your diet. Be sure you include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and plenty of water in your new eating plan.

Taking time for you is critical to maintaining your sobriety. Make it a goal to remind yourself how far you have come. Do this by writing in a journal, meditating or doing an activity you enjoy, such as biking, swimming or hiking. Make a resolution to do at least one activity you enjoy each week.

Visit My 12 Step Store to check out the unique gifts, journals and other treats you can use to help you obtain your goal of doing something for yourself.

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How to Find Peace in the Holiday Season

Posted on December 26, 2016 by MainAdmin

How to Find Peace in the Holiday Season

The holidays are a time of great excitement, family connection and community involvement. These elements, however, can also make the holidays a significant source of stress. People from all walks of life find the holidays to be emotionally challenging and have a hard time finding balance and maintaining a sense of peace during this time of year. The following tips offer some simple coping techniques that can help make the coming weeks easier to navigate. After all, there are so many positive things to be gained during the holidays, that avoiding undue stress and anxiety is well worth the time and effort.

Create Time and Space for Emotional Breaks

One of the most challenging aspects of the holiday season is often spending time with the people that you love the most. In many cases, this is a time when you will have far more interaction with family members than during the rest of the year, and those interactions can sometimes feel a bit forced. It is important to give yourself periodic breaks from the social settings that permeate this time of year. That can be as simple as stepping outside to get some fresh air, taking a brief walk, or even finding a quiet space within the house to take some deep breaths and recenter. There is nothing wrong with taking the time to remain balanced, and some people even make use of their watch or phone to alert them of scheduled personal breaks.

Embrace Simplicity and Balance

It is easy to feel overscheduled and rushed during the holidays, but it is important to try and keep things simple. Time spent with friends and family is far more rewarding when things are quiet, and when one’s attention is undivided. Never feel bad about turning down an invitation or leaving an event early if there are simply too many things to juggle in a given day. As with so many things, quality is far more valuable than quantity, and it is easier to appreciate the many benefits of the holiday season when you are relaxed and able to enjoy yourself.

At my12stepstore.com, we have assembled an impressive array of products that are aimed at increasing serenity and supporting sobriety. We offer books on sober living, addiction, recovery and personal growth, as well as jewelry, decorative items and much more. Please feel free to look through our offerings to find the perfect gift for yourself or a loved one.

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Maintaining Your Serenity During Holiday Gatherings with Family

Posted on December 19, 2016 by MainAdmin

We long for a Norman Rockwell setting when it comes to getting together with family over the holidays. Unfortunately, most of us get something closer to a Chevy Chase Christmas with burnt turkey, surly relatives and wrecked expectations.

With so much chaos and so many emotions running high, how can you hold onto your serenity (and your sobriety) while visiting family over the holidays?  Whether you are a recovering addict or simply someone who wants to survive the next few weeks, we have a few tips to give you hope and peace this holiday season.

Don’t Expect Too Much

If you enter the next family together with high hopes that this year will be different then you will likely end up disappointed. Uncle Joe is Uncle Joe and your siblings are your siblings. You know what they are like (and the stunts they are likely to pull), so why expect any different? If you walk into that gathering with full expectations for the day, you will find it much easier to handle what is thrown your way.

Know Your Personal Triggers

Think about what sets you off. If your mom’s snide remarks about your love life or your brother-in-law’s snip about your recovery trigger your emotions, do what you can to stay clear of those people and their rude remarks.

Don’t Take the Bait

Once you recognize what your triggers are and who is likely to set them off, find ways to deal with your frustration without taking the bait. Take along a special project (like a puzzle, snowman making kit, etc.), that you can pull out and get engrossed in when the “fun” starts. Finding ways to take yourself out of the situation without leaving will help you remain at the gathering and enjoy the people you do get along with without feeling emotionally depleted afterward.

Have a Game Plan

If your family is a rough one to get along with, have a game plan. This may include:

  • Staying with a neutral friend. If you are coming in from out of town, make arrangements with a friend to crash at their house. This will give you a place away from your family so you can recharge between gatherings.
  • Renting a car. Do you tend to feel trapped because you don’t have a means of escaping (even for a little while)? Consider renting or borrowing a car to use while visiting the family.
  • Making a plan before you go. For those of you who can only handle three hours with your family, plan on staying that long and no more despite any backlash this may cause.
  • Taking an ally along. Can’t imagine facing your entire family alone this year? Take along someone you can trust (and confide in) to help get you through the ordeal.

Take Care of Yourself

Overcoming addiction takes a lot of work, and allowing yourself to enter such an emotional experience as a family gathering during the holidays can send you reeling. Be sure to take time out to refocus, rejuvenate and simply relax. Whether you will be visiting family for a day or a week, be sure that you take care of yourself. Here are some tips:

  • Eat well and avoid too many snacks, which can make you feel sluggish and emotional.
  • Try and stay on some sort of schedule.
  • Get enough sleep.
  • Take some time alone to relax, such as going for a walk, meeting up with a friend or even go shopping.

The holidays can be wracked with chaos and emotions, but they can also be alive with fun and enjoyment. Once you learn to accept your family for who they are (flaws and all) and find a way to set boundaries for them and yourself, you will discover that those holidays can be a time to enjoy each other.

Learn some practical ways to survive this holiday season by checking out the books and other products available at My 12 Step Store, the premier online recovery store site.

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