It’s official – a new year is underway. The past is past, so time to focus on making the most of the present and future. Many people see the new year as a time to get a fresh start. While you can (and should) make changes in your life all year long, January marks a new calendar year and the opportunity to start off on a positive note. Review your recovery goals and see what adjustments you can make to keep things going strong.
Since addiction recovery is an ongoing journey, you must continually be aware of what is working well and what is not. It’s okay to change things up now and then and try new approaches. Here are a few ways to keep your recovery on a positive path this year:
Start a Gratitude Journal
It’s never too late to start counting your blessings. Keeping a gratitude journal can help you to change your perspective by forcing you to look for the good in each day. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate either. Maybe you’re grateful for having a sunny day after a period of rain, or finding spare change for the parking meter in your coat pocket. There is always a silver lining if you take the time to look for it. Plus, when you’re going through a rough patch, you can go back and re-read what you have written to brighten your day.
Practice Mindfulness
You can’t change the past or control the future – live in the here and now. Become more aware of your surrounding and feelings; experience each moment as it comes. Taking life one day and one moment at a time can help you to feel less overwhelmed and appreciate the good things.
Build Your Support System
Take steps to establish more positive relationships in your life. Start slowly reaching out and connecting with people who make you feel good about yourself, support your recovery, encourage you to be the best version of yourself, hold you accountable, and are there for you. It’s good to know who you can turn to in any situation.
Focus on Making Small Changes
You don’t have to do a drastic overhaul of your life – and in fact, that can work against you in recovery. Instead, pick one or two things at a time that you want to work on. Break down bigger goals into smaller, more manageable parts. Consider where you want to be in the future, and what steps you can take to start moving in that direction. Just make sure that your goals are aligned with your continued progress in recovery.
Learn to Bounce Back
Everyone faces difficult times now and then, but it is how you handle them that matters. Make it a point to learn more effective strategies for coping with stress, overcoming obstacles, and keeping a positive attitude. Be open to trying new things because you never know what will resonate with you. The more tools you have under your belt, the more confident you can feel in your recovery.
Crossroads supports clients in remembering who they wanted to be and developing real-life skills for long-term recovery. With comprehensive treatment programs and gender-responsive care, clients engage in personalized programs that meet their unique needs. If addiction recovery is one of your goals this year, Crossroads can help you embark on this journey.
[cta]Is addiction recovery what you need to make the new year the best it can be? Contact Crossroads and let us help you get started.[/cta]
