2 Simple Tips to Overcoming Addiction

I know, the title does mention “simple” steps to get over addiction, but everyone struggling from addictions know there is no such thing. Believe it or not, that is the first step to overcoming your addiction. All the 12 step programs, rehab centers, and do it yourself programs are doomed to failure if you are not prepared for the battle that lies ahead.

Don’t let that scare you or de-motivate you from beginning your journey to freedom. You and everyone else in your situation are there for a reason. You are addicted. The term itself means you are dependant on your substance for survival. It should be no surprise that something with that much power over your life would have a hard time letting go.

Understand the road will be bumpy, but it will be worth the temporary cravings. They will subside after a while. Follow the two steps outlined below. Pace yourself. As far as the rest of your recovery goes, go as slow as you need to go so you don’t burn out and relapse. You have the power to overcome!

Acknowledge you have a problem
You need to have a long heart to heart with yourself as you start out on a mission for sobriety. Some people have a hard time admitting they have a problem. They say to themselves “I don’t have a problem I just really enjoy blank.” You also hear phrases like “I just need a blank every once in a while” or “I can quit any time I want I just don’t choose to.” You cannot be one of these people and overcome your addiction.

Know the things that set you off
Once you have admitted you have a problem you need to focus on understanding your problem areas. What makes you want your substance? What times of day do you struggle most? Does stress set you off? It is important to note the times, events, or feelings that bring on the cravings.

Once you have identified the negative factors, try to avoid them. If you cannot avoid them, try to stay focused on being an over comer. This is a difficult step because we cannot totally eliminate all problems from our lives. Unfortunately, this is the one step you do not have complete control over.  To deal with this, it is important to constantly remind yourself that you are over addiction and use the power of your mind to keep you sober.

These tips will jumpstart any recovery for any type of abuse. Without understanding the difficulty, acknowledging the problem, and staying aware of your situation you will fail. Look at your road to recovery as journey not a destination. It took you some time to become addicted. It will take you some time to get over it. The simple fact that you are reading this is proof you have what it takes to overcome your addiction.