We all have those things we don’t want to face. It might be trauma. It might be that chore we absolutely hate but needs doing. We find ways to put them off until they either go away or, more likely, they become so urgent we have cannot ignore them anymore. Often, when this happens, we find ourselves scrambling and only deal with the parts of the issue we have to before putting it back on the shelf and ignoring it until it becomes critical again. A vicious and unproductive cycle is born.
While in active addiction, our lives are one long series of things with which we have not dealt. We use our addiction to create a false sense of well-being. The problem with this is that when those things become serious again, we not only have to deal with the issue but with the consequences of our illness as well which reduces our ability to be effective.
Feeling overwhelmed is a common feeling among people living with addiction. Because of our addictions, our skills in dealing with stress have atrophied. To us, strong emotion, good or bad, stress, good or bad, are reasons to drink or use. We are either celebrating or hiding, so when things come up from which there is no escape, our ability to address them is stunted.
Suit Up and Show Up for Yourself
Responsibility is one of the first steps in recovery. In fact, Step One in the 12-Step programs is to admit that we are powerless over our addiction and that our lives have become unmanageable. This is not easy, and anyone in long-lasting recovery will tell you that it takes repeated attempts. Admitting there’s a problem is relatively easy. How many times have you heard the alcoholic talking about their addiction while they’re drinking? Actually doing something about it is much harder, and procrastination is all about stalling.
Beating procrastination takes skill and determination. Make a plan. For example, I will call a detox center in an hour, or I will go to a 12-Step meeting at 7 pm tonight. After making the plan, hold yourself accountable by telling your friends and loved ones about your plan. Ask someone to go with you for moral support, make a list of the things you stand to lose if you don’t show up. This will make the importance of your choices very immediate.
The thing to remember about choosing to get help is that it is never too late. You can redeem yourself and your life- sooner is better than later. Make the plan. Make the call. This is your chance to kick the addiction and Fort Worth Recovery can help. We are trained, compassionate, and waiting for you to call us at 817 382 2894 or contact us online today.
