When active in addiction(s) we were on an unrelenting self-destructive path. Life in general seemed overwhelming and there was a tendency to blame other people, places and things for our problems. No matter how hard we tried, will-power seemed to be of no use. We continued to spiral downward and the grief, guilt, depression and loneliness dominated existence.
We hung onto childhood ideas and brought them into our adult experience. We may have been arrogant, believing we had all the answers and everyone else was wrong. We were defiant, resisting the suggestions made by others, and self-indulgent hoping that outside pleasures would fill the gaping hole on the inside. Over time, our personal power whittled away.
When we sought help and began our journey into recovery, we became elated by the sense of a new beginning. We began to repair the destruction created by our behavior. Our relationships improved as our loved ones, employers and associates began to trust us again. They saw we were earnest in changing our lifestyle.
Those who sought formal treatment may have been taught that you were powerless. This may be true to some degree but it is also confusing. We became powerless over the substance of what we were abusing but that was just a symptom of what was really going on.
Agnes Whistling Elk said, "Power is strength and the ability to see yourself through your own eyes and not through the eyes of another."
As recovering addicts we actually need personal power to help raise our self-esteem by identifying with our true values, setting boundaries in our relationships, aligning our outward actions with our internal beliefs and making a stance for who we truly are. This allows us to feel comfortable in our own skin. As we progress, we no longer have peaks and valleys in our emotions because we have the power to believe in ourselves. We stop fighting everything and everyone because we allow them to be who they are and we feel confident about ourselves. We learn to lead from our hearts rather than analyzing from just our brain. Personal power comes when we tune in and listen to that inner guiding voice. We also gain strength by asking others for help and listening to their suggestions. We become open and honest with ourselves and others while knowing we have no claim on anyone else to make us happy.
Further along in our process we have taken action toward restoration of our lives and may have started the process of forgiving ourselves and others. We start to live for today and planning for our brighter future. Our life energy is redirected from being in crisis to having a positive outlook. Personal power is beginning to be restored.
Below are 10 things we can do each day that will help in developing a healthier lifestyle and forge a pathway to strengthening your personal power.
1. First thing in the morning identify with the people and/or experiences for which you are most grateful. A grateful heart is powerful.
2. Let go of grudges. Releasing this negative energy from your heart frees you from the power of others.
3. Start your day with a positive affirmation. A positive affirmation helps to align your thinking and opens your heart path.
4. Create periods of quiet time throughout the day. This is an opportunity to listen to that subtle, guiding inner voice.
5. Allow time in your day for exercise. Moving our bodies releases energy that promotes a positive outlook.
6. Eat healthy whole foods. Whole foods help to balance our bodily systems.
7. Look for ways to expand your community, such as volunteering, joining a club or experimenting with a new hobby.
8. Call a friend and ask them how they are doing without a need to talk about you.
9. Know your values and live in accordance with them. Living in alignment with who you truly are is the most powerful way to live.
10. Make restful sleep a priority. When rested, we can think more clearly about the challenges we may face.
Practicing the above healthy habits strengthens our foundation and creates personal power. When we take responsibility for who we are and maintain a healthy perspective we will likely be able to deal with unexpected life challenges for the days to come.
Author: Steve Clair
Steve is a Life Coach who dedicates a portion of his practice to working with individuals in recovery from addictions. His guided process is life changing and was developed to help build a firm personal foundation to grow from. Coaching is not a replacement for treatment or therapy and is best suited for individuals ready to take their recovery to new heights for today and the future.
If you are interested in learning more about the benefits of Recovery Coaching, contact Steve at sclair@oz.net for a complimentary coaching session. http://www.covisionwellness.com/
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