Recovery from an addiction can be overwhelming, especially in the beginning when you are trying desperately not to give in to the craving. It can take a lot out of you to establish and adjust to a new routine—living each day without a drink or a drug. That’s why you take each day as it comes, and do the best that your can for sobriety. There is no need to rush. There is no jumpstart or fast forward.
Addiction is an insidious condition. It can continue beckoning even when you are in recovery. That’s why setting a consistent pace for yourself is so important. Setting a consistent pace will help to keep your stress level as low as possible. When you are stressed, the addiction can find a crack in your bravery and trigger the urge to drink or take drugs again.
If you don’t have one already, consider buying a day book calendar. In it jot down your commitments for each day of the week. Work, grocery shop, empty the trash, vacuum and clean your living quarters, attend meetings, go to therapy, meditate, exercise, alone time, and buy food for Fido—whatever you need to accomplish. When your tasks and obligations are written down it compartmentalizes the idea of a busy week into hours and days. This is what I need to do today, only.
When you enter tasks into your calendar you are taking charge of your life, rather than letting it run you. When you set a consistent pace you are also setting a safe pace. A safe pace can help to prevent a relapse. In addition to managing stress, setting a consistent pace can give you more opportunity to bring pleasure into your life. Instead of worrying about all the things you have to do during the week, you can see them individually in your calendar. Is there a block or two of time in which you could plan something fun, like going to the movies?
People are habitual creatures and breaking habits can take time. In our fast-paced society, we are flooded with information. At the gasoline pump there are videos screens, in waiting rooms televisions blare. There’s no space for quiet contemplation, that is unless you make it for yourself. Bring earplugs wherever you go and consider shutting off your cell phone alerts. Pay attention to your recovery, set a consistent and safe pace, and heal well.
If you or a loved one struggles with addiction, get help now. Nexus Recovery Services specializes in addiction treatment and encompasses holistic therapy for the mind, body, and soul with a focus on staying active and connected to nature. Our mission is to provide tools and support for every client’s seamless transition into a meaningful and fulfilling life of sobriety. We offer a free and confidential consultation. Call us to get started: (310) 881-9151