Overwhelmed by Resolutions? Here’s How to Make Changes in Your Recovery that Last

The New Year represents a time of fresh new beginnings and positive changes. For many, determining New Year’s resolutions for themselves is simple. But, how often do those carefully thought-out resolutions actually come to complete fruition over the year? It is common for people to set out to accomplish their resolutions only to slowly lose motivation to carry them out as the year progresses. For those in recovery, however, setting resolutions centered on their abstinence from drug and alcohol use and then losing sight of them can have devastating effects.

So, if you are in recovery, learning how to keep from getting caught up in resolution burnout and remain focused on your recovery goals is vital not only at the beginning of the year, but all the way through.

5 Ways to Make Changes in Your Recovery That Last

Like most else related to recovery, it is important to take change one day at a time. Overwhelming yourself with the pressure of having to accomplish several self-made goals is a recipe for disaster. Therefore, spend some time thinking about what aspects of your recovery you think could be improved. Then, consider the following ways to help make those goals a reality.

1. Be Realistic and Reasonable

When looking at what areas of your recovery you want to make changes to, remind yourself to be both realistic and reasonable. Pick things that you know you will have the time and energy to work on and understand that your progress may not always be linear. Letting go of the idea of achieving perfection is half the battle.

2. Start Small

All changes, whether big or small, can be highly impactful to your life. Do not start out the New Year with lofty goals, but instead choose some smaller goals that can be easily accomplished. There is no rush when it comes to personal progress.

3. Set Daily Goals

Think about a modification that you have been wanting to make in your recovery but has felt too stressful to make happen. See if you can break down that change into more digestible pieces that you can accomplish daily instead of all at one time. Again, embrace the motto “one day at a time” and avoid forcing yourself into finishing the entire puzzle at once.

 4. Talk About It

It can be easy to start to feel overloaded and mentally clouded when you keep all of your thoughts, ideas, and emotions to yourself – especially those related to actionable items you are attempting to achieve. Invite others in by sharing your goals with them, or keep a journal where you can dump all the chatter in your head. Doing so can help reduce any stress or internal pressure you may be experiencing as you work to make these changes.

5. Stay Connected

Make it a point to remain dedicated to your recovery community, as you likely already have been doing. This includes things like continuing to attend 12-Step meetings and regularly seeing your therapist. Even during times when you may feel like you do not need the extra support, simply being in a supportive, therapeutic setting can help reinvigorate you and encourage your motivation to carry out the changes you are attempting to make.

If you are struggling with active addiction, or if you are having difficulty maintaining your sobriety, reach out to us at AdCare Treatment Centers right now by calling . Our team of compassionate and dedicated experts can help you get back in control of your life so you can make the choices that best meet your needs.