It’s the end of another decade. 2020 is a big year and it also signals the beginning of a brand new era. The turn of the decade also holds a promise. It’s an opportunity to begin again, to create a new life chapter, and to become the best version of yourself.
If you are in addiction recovery or you’re struggling with drugs and alcohol, 2020 is your chance to start the New Year sober. While it may not be easy, here are some tips that can help make this journey more manageable.
1. Attend holiday events with a sober buddy
Having someone stick with you throughout the night to keep you in check is an effective way to steer clear of alcohol. Ask someone you trust to be your sober buddy. Make sure this person will not let you down by leaving you or letting you drink alcohol.
At the same time, make sure you bring someone you will actually listen to. There’s no point in having a sober buddy if you know you won’t bother with their advice.
2. Say NO
The simplest way to get out of sticky situations where your progress will be at risk is to say NO. Many people in recovery are forced to attend New Year parties and they get pressured to drink because they are not strong enough to say no.
Keep in mind that saying no is equivalent to saying yes to yourself and your future. If you feel that a certain party will be alcohol or drug-centric, don’t go. It doesn’t matter who invites you. This is also applicable when refusing alcohol or drugs when you’re in a party. Put your foot down and be firm in your refusal.
3. Throw your own party
Difficult to find a party where people are not expecting to get drunk? There’s no need to sulk and spend your holidays alone. Consider throwing your own shindig and make it clear to everyone that it’s going to be a sober party. Invite like-minded people who are also in recovery and people who are supportive of your sobriety.
4. Pamper yourself
Get a massage, book a facial, or sign up for a yoga class. These are just some examples of self-care activities that you can do instead of turning to alcohol. When you take care of yourself and put yourself first, this will improve your sense of wellbeing and it will also improve your optimism. Pampering yourself will result in longer-lasting positive effects compared to the momentary relief from drinking.
5. Focus on the positive
The holiday season can be stressful. Sometimes, just the thought of facing another year can give you major anxiety, which can drive you to drink or do drugs. Change your mind set by focusing on the positive things in your life. If you just take the time to reflect, you’ll discover that you have a lot of things to be thankful for.
6. Always remind yourself of the reason you want to stay sober
Every person in recovery has a driving force or motivation why the want to stay sober. Maybe for you, it’s your family, your health or maybe your career. Whatever your reason is, always remind yourself of this whenever you’re tempted to drink. Sometimes, all you need is this reminder to keep you on course.
7. Read inspiring quotes
You’d be surprised to discover that reading motivational quotes in recovery can be a powerful way to keep you motivated. When you’re feeling upset or depressed, inspiring quotes can help lift your spirits up and give you that needed push to not give up your recovery journey.
8. Start a goal planner
The New Year is the perfect time to list down your goals. Whether these are major goals or small ones, writing them own can help you visualize what you want and give you the drive to work towards these objectives.
9. Eat healthy
Many people underestimate the power of eating healthy. It’s really quite simple. Healthy foods are filled with nutrients your body needs to feel good and look good. When you eat healthily, you’ll feel stronger, less prone to sickness, and less anxious. This will also help lessen your cravings for drugs and alcohol.
10. Sign up for a fitness class
Surely, even you have heard that exercise can produce happy hormones. This is the reason why an active lifestyle is an important aspect when in recovery. Not only is exercise great for you on a physical level, but it can also benefit you mentally and socially.
11. Join a support group
No man is an island. You don’t need to deal with your struggles alone. Joining a support group is an amazing way to develop new friendships and be around people who will understand what you’re going through. This will also open you up to new adventures and expand your network.
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, help is available.
Contact Morningside Recovery by Lighthouse today.