Recovery is tough. There is no reason to sugar coat this fact. Addiction tends to take everything from an individual and recovery is the time when that person works toward regaining a normal, functional life. It can be difficult staying motivated when in recovery, but it is not impossible. This article will explore five ways in which you can keep yourself motivated throughout the recovery process.
The first way in which you can keep yourself motivated is through keeping it simple. Though most people tell you to look at the big picture, in recovery it is best to focus on the here and now. This is especially important in the early stages of recovery. By keeping things simple you can more easily reach small goals and milestones. These small achievable steps will help keep you motivated and eventually lead to larger gains. In the very beginning you must focus on one day at a time or even one minute at a time until you are strong enough to think of long term goals.
A second way to stay motivated is by affirming yourself. This ties into keeping it simple as you can celebrate your small accomplishments along the way. Take time each day, each hour if needed to think of the positive steps you have taken. Additionally, remember to keep a positive attitude even when it seems like everything is tough or falling apart. This attitude paired with the affirmations will keep you focused on recovery and the new life that lies ahead.
The third step is to celebrate your accomplishments. Make sure to celebrate in small ways at every accomplishment. If you have your first 24 hours clean then treat yourself to something small and healthy. Celebrate a full week clean and a month. In a year you can throw a party, without drinking or drugs, to celebrate a full year of recovery. Sometimes addictions are so strong that making it a single day is a huge accomplishment, do not be afraid to be happy for yourself. In fact, many people pre-plan an award for certain milestones as a way to stay motivated.
The fourth step is to create a support network. This is something that can grow and change throughout recovery, but is highly important. Being in recovery is possible without friends and support, but it is like a three legged table, without the fourth leg it is just not as balanced and secure. Find friends and family members who you can both be accountable to and celebrate with in a happy manner. Surround yourself with people who will be happy for you as you grow and change in recovery. These people will hold a special place in your life.
Finally, maintain structure in your life and routine. Addiction tends to make things chaotic. Though life cannot always be scheduled down to every minute, many things can occur daily. Make sure you are taking care of yourself, your general care and hygiene and that you are completing the basic things needed to stay in recovery. Have a set routine that you can stick to each day. The consistency without your addiction will become the new life you desire.
Staying motivated in the challenges of recovery can be a daunting task, but one that will help you reach long term recovery. You were strong enough to make the decision to go into recovery, to start working against your addiction, don’t give up because you are worth it.
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