When you’re in rehab, the word NO applies to more than drug and alcohol abstinence. It’s an important word to use as you create boundaries and learn to achieve life balance: the healthy type of balance we all need if we’re going to pursue a fulfilling life.
Stress Drives Addiction
You may have begun drinking or using drugs to run away from a life that was unmanageable. The stress of work, relationships, or finances can drive men of all ages to seek escape through substance abuse or other addictions. Now that you’ve sought help, it’s time to learn to say no—to drugs, alcohol, overcommitment, chronic busyness, and pressure to
conform. Many of our clients find that when they learn to live more simply, it is easier to sustain sobriety and find joy in day-to-day circumstances. Depending upon your unique situation, you may need to say “no” to:
- Occupational stress. Whether you own your own business, climb the corporate ladder, work as a tradesman, or go to school full time, it’s important to remember that your time, energy, and resources are finite. You cannot take on every task—and you cannot please all people at all times. Prioritize what is mission critical, and consider delegating or turning down what you cannot manage. If saying “no” isn’t possible in your job position, you may even need to revamp your career to prioritize your health and sobriety.
- Relationship stress. You’ve probably been advised to take a break from romantic dating relationships during active recovery. This is sound advice, since you need to conserve time and emotional energy to focus on rehab. The same holds true for other relationships that drain you or contribute to unhealthy stress. Talk with your counselor about how to manage old relationships, when to pursue new ones, and learn to love yourself in the meantime.
- Negative, destructive thinking. When your thoughts are dominated by patterns of negativity and victimization, it’s tough to embrace emotional healing. To let go of these destructive thought processes, (1) see a counselor or addiction therapist regularly, (2) join a support group or 12-step group that will hold you accountable, and (3) find ways to serve. Volunteering helps you abandon your unhealthy self-focus and allows you to focus on the needs of others – even for a short time.
Holiday Stress & Saying NO
The holidays can be a particularly difficult time to simplify. Party invitations, gift purchases, and family commitments threaten to steal your joy, but 10 Acre Ranch can help. Our team of accredited addiction specialists provide life skills coaching, boundary training, and therapy sessions that help you say yes to the important things, and no to the stressors that can overcome you as you fight to stay sober. To learn more or find out about insurance coverage, call 877.228.4679 now.
