Overcoming addiction isn’t easy! It is common knowledge that admitting to a problem is the first step in any recovery program. If you have an addiction, you must first come to the point where you can come to terms with that fact before moving on to steps to overcome it.
But what about after you’ve acknowledged that you have a problem? Where do you go from there? There are many different views on the perfect path and steps to follow to overcome addiction. The perfect path for one person might not be the right course of action for the next person.
That said, there are certain things that every person needs in order to overcome addiction. On top of the “steps” towards recovery, there are other things you must find to be able to successfully overcome any addiction. Certain frames of mind, people you can count on, and setting goals can all prove extremely beneficial in the process of beating addiction. If you can’t overcome addiction alone, turn to a specialist. Perhaps start with a list of Delaware recovery.org providers to find the right specialist to work with.
Here are 5 things that every person should find when trying to overcome addiction:
1. Overcoming Addiction: The Belief
You must be optimistic if you want to overcome your addiction. Don’t let pessimism or negative thoughts in. If you start to think them, push them out as quickly as possible. “Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, either way you will be right.”
Believe in yourself! Believe that you have the power to succeed and overcome. Then put in the work itself. Through that hard work you will build even more belief in yourself. Remember the accomplishments you’ve had so far (with your addiction and life in general), and give yourself credit for what you’ve been able to do.
2. Overcoming Addiction: Your Goals
You must have goals when trying to overcome your addiction! Addictions are strong; You must find things to motivate you that are stronger. Set steps and goals for yourself (small and big) for overcoming your addiction. Set goals (small and big) for your life. Set these steps and follow them. Set these goals and work towards them.
When it gets hard, think of the goals you’ve set. Think of what you are giving up because of your addiction. Think of the life you can have once you overcome your addiction. Set your goals and refer to them often. Think of what you are working towards. Always remind yourself that hard work you are putting in will be worth it as you see yourself meeting your goals.
3. Overcoming Addiction: The Distractions
Will “distractions” alone make you overcome your addiction? No. Am I saying that all you need to do to overcome your addiction is to “stay busy”? Absolutely not. But can having other things in your life help? Yes! Find new groups or clubs to join. Adopt a pet. Find ways in your community to serve. Find a hobby that will keep you excited or get your creative juices flowing.
Not only will these things help to keep you busy, and sometimes distracted from your urges for your addiction, but they will also help you cope with stress. On top of that, they can help to bring more meaning to your life, giving you added motivation and support when trying to overcome your addiction.
4. Overcoming Addiction: A Good Memory
One great way to help you work towards overcoming your addiction is to remember what you are missing out on because of your addiction, to the point where you are able to see what your addiction has cost you. Find ways to help remember the life you can have once you’re able to overcome.
Keep a journal. Do what it takes to remember the things in your life that you have without your addiction. When you are working to overcome, record your experiences. Think about what led to your addiction. Then think of ways that you can overcome those base reasons or experiences. Think about what has and hasn’t worked for you in the past. Then work to avoid the things that have brought you down before, and continue to do and seek out that which worked for you in the past.
5. Overcoming Addiction: People to Lean On
Everyone needs people they can depend on when they are trying to overcome an addiction. You will need someone to talk to, someone that will build you up when you are feeling low, someone that can help get you distracted when you are feeling urges, and someone who can remind you of your worth and goals when you experience low points.
For some, you may be lucky enough to already have this support system built into your life in the form of good friends and family. If you don’t already have this support system in your life, put in the effort you need to find it. Reach out to friends you haven’t talked to in a while. Let them know of your goals and the help you need. Be a good friend to them in return. You can also find a support group for your specific addiction, a mentor, counselor, and/or treatment center to help give you the support and encouragement you need.
Overcoming Addiction: The Conclusion
Addictions are incredibly difficult to overcome. With the right frame of mind, goals, and support system, you can at least be on your way towards recovery. Work to identify and build these things in your life, and you will grow motivated and find support as you progress in your recovery.
Nicole is a content writer for Delray Recovery Center, where she covers topics related to addictions and recovery. Photo credit meditation.org.
