January’s name comes from the ancient Roman god Janos or Janus, who represents the transition from one year to the next.
As we leave behind 2022 and embrace the beginning of the new year, we can let go of what no longer serves us and take note of what matters most to us. Journaling, meditating, or spending time in nature can help us realize our vision for the coming year.
Here are a few tips to help you along in your recovery journey:
Set intentions, not resolutions.
As we enter 2023, we can expand our awareness of what is realistic for us to do and work on setting intentions, rather than resolutions, which help us stay on track with our recovery goals. Focusing on why your long-term goals are important to you and how you will accomplish them will help you be successful.
Do the smallest thing possible.
When you are feeling stagnant, doing something minor that is positive will help you stay focused on your recovery goals. If you are not interested in going to a meeting, you can text your sponsor or try one of RCA’S 1- Minute Goal Setting Bubbles.
Connect with a sober buddy.
Reach out and talk to people working on similar goals as you, such as going to 90 meetings in 90 days. Finding a regular time to discuss your progress and share your experiences can help you increase your motivation and remind you that you are not alone in your recovery.
Get back to basics.
If you are feeling overwhelmed with your recovery intentions, focus on basic self-care such as getting adequate sleep, drinking enough water, and making healthy food choices. Exercising daily, even just going for a 20-minute walk, is great for your mental health. Letting yourself laugh and have fun can help you feel less stressed.
Change what you can.
If you feel like you are not meeting your recovery intentions, think more about what you want to achieve and try a new behavior or activity, such as switching from one type of exercise to another. Even if it turns out to not be as great as you hoped, if it helps you achieve your recovery goals—it’s worth it.
Perceive Mistakes as Learning Opportunities, Not Failures.
It is vital to not place too much pressure on yourself. If you relapse, which is common, instead of beating yourself up about it, it may be beneficial to set an intention that reminds you that mistakes are simply chances to learn, grow, and start again.
Remember that you’re running your own race.
Stay focused on your own journey and do not compare yourself to others. Making comparisons can hinder your recovery and harm your sense of self-worth.
Head to treatment.
If unable to maintain sobriety on your own, reentering treatment or choosing a more intensive level of care can help you accomplish your goals.
If you or a loved one need help, call 1-800-RECOVERY.
