Holidays are loaded with triggers. Memories, family situations, and extra demands for your time are all difficult to manage.While at
same time, living in recovery, especially when your newly sober , has its own assortment of challenges.. Keep following 10 Sobriety Savers close by as holidays draw near.Hopefully they will be helpful as tools to assist you in keeping things on track and also when you become .... overwhelmed ..shall we say??1.) Start Now ! Don't save your shopping, decorating, cooking, wrapping, and cleaning for last minute. That is too much pressure for anyone. This is year to be organized, so you'll have time to enjoy season in sobriety. If you can't get something done, just let it go with no regrets.
2.) Attend your meetings TIS th1.) Start preparing NOW. e season! Don't let social invitations distract you from recovery.You'll find a meeting invaluable when you happen to come up against a trigger or some craving. If you start feeling down, or really don't feel like going to a meeting--THIS,is when you really do need to go. That hour of your time may save your life.
3.) Don't take on new commitments. It just isn't a good idea .Let someone take care of you this year.If asked to do something you may find too stressful simply say, "I'm sorry. I'm doing some developmental work and I'm just too busy to give attention it deserves.." Making Christmas dinner for 50 people or example, will not help you relax and stay focused on your recovery.
4) Before planning family reunions To be sure you can count on understanding from your family,express your need to celebrate Christmas quietly at home this year. Perhaps you could visit with family and friends before or after holiday party to share a dessert and catch up on family news together.
5) Honor day Family reunions may stir up resentment. Be aware that emotions are more sensitive during holidays. We all have high expectations that can't be met . Family reunions stir up old feelings like jealousy, resentment .Don't let them creep thru--even when you see cousin Pete who still owes you $500.handing out 20$ dollar bills.You've waited this long, what's 1 more day ? Enjoy your family, enjoy feeling gratitude for your life, and sobriety to enjoy it.
