September 27

”Concentration is the secret of strength.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

Temptation is usually strongest when I feel weak. The program mentions the HALT warning signs – Hungry, Angry, Lonely, and Tired. It’s quite true for me that those states are times when I feel more vulnerable. Each of these diminishes my ability to concentrate, to focus on using the tools of recovery rather than turning to my old tried and true behaviours. Being in any of those HALT moods saps my strength and opens cracks in my defence that my addict is always searching for. I need to recognize those things that weaken my resolve. There are often simple ways for me to take care of myself to increase the odds in my favour. I need to ensure that I get enough rest, diffuse my anger through journaling or exercise, connect with others instead of isolating and maintain a balanced diet and avoid excess fast food and junk food. My spiritual strength is also a big factor in my resilience to temptation. Seeing as how my addiction built a wall around my spiritual connections, ensuring I continue to pray, meditate, read spiritual literature and reflect on life are all healthy ways to ground myself. These too are affected when I neglect my basic needs. As the saying goes, First Things First. I need look after my physical body in order to take care of my emotional and spiritual selves.

Affirmation I will pay attention to my basic needs. This is a fundamental step to help me focus on my emotional and spiritual well-being.

April 4

”Talking too much about oneself can also be a means to conceal oneself.” Friedrich Nietzsche

By my nature, I tend to be introverted. As such, being in groups and social situations drains my personal energy. For me, time alone with a book, going for a walk, or simply to sit with my thoughts is required to recharge and recuperate. For an extrovert, the opposite is true, they tend to need social gatherings to recharge and for them being on their own is very draining. It’s important for us to be aware of how situations will affect our physical and mental health. I am all too aware that I am more vulnerable to my addictive patterns when I am stressed, tired, hungry or anxious. Planning time in my day and week so I can have the moments I need to recharge is important in maintaining my defenses against my addictive tendency. I need to listen to my body’s needs, maintain a good diet, get proper sleep and exercise, and ensure my physical health is taken care of. Keeping a healthy balance of my physical, mental, emotional and spiritual condition will support my recovery.

Affirmation I will take care of myself today and ensure that I have time for activities to maintain my physical health.