We need to learn to run with patience:

•       We can benefit more from recovery and healing when we aren’t trying to rush the growth.

•       We can commit to the process.

•       We can settle in and allow the progression of self-discovery to happen.

Resolutions

•       Resolutions, by definition, are resolute. They are concrete, absolute, “personal laws” that are placed upon ourselves.

•       Creating these “personal laws” in recovery (whether it’s substances or behaviors like emotional dependency) can create high expectations: (remember the saying,” high expectations can lead to premeditated resentments.”)

•       Having plans for recovery is important, but creating an absolute in recovery may lead to setbacks from stress, fear of failure, and desire for perfection. We thrive when focusing on progress vs. focusing on perfection, so for some, they may not work.

Intentions

•       An intention is a positive call to action about something you want to do rather than something you don’t want to do but feel that you “should.”

•       They are reasonable goals to be reached, transformation of mindset or attitude, and an intent for positive change.

•       If we stray from our positive intention, we can pause, reflect, and get back on track.

•       Intentions are a way to complement and help you progress on your personal healing and recovery journey.

If you’re struggling or not quite sure where to begin on your journey of healing or supporting your loved one, reflecting on your reasons to make this positive change is a great place to begin. Writing down those reasons can serve as a helpful reminder when we’re feeling unmotivated or stuck.

A Recovery/Healing Mission Statement (R.H.M.S) and a W.H.Y Statement are great tools to keep you moving forward. An R.H.M.S. is a vision you see of yourself and the destination that your recovery and healing will lead you to. It should be a few sentences long and something you read to yourself daily.

A recovery, mindset, and healing toolkit is perfect for those challenging, anxiety-producing moments when you feel like things are getting out of your control. It’s a place to mentally and physically store the tools you’ve picked up along the way. It consists of three areas: a mindfulness exercise, creating a go-bag, and having an awareness of your body. I’ll go over each one in detail.