6 New Year’s Resolutions to Maintain Sobriety in 2022
We’ve all made the promise to ourselves that “this year, I’m going to be different.” We’re going to fix our lives and become better people. Maybe you resolve to lose weight, stop smoking or drinking, have more meaningful relationships in your life, or quit your job. But those promises don’t always stick. And when they don’t, we find ourselves struggling with disappointment and frustration and wondering what went wrong.
Let’s make 2022 a year to remember; below, we have outlined a simple list to help you keep your new year’s resolutions to maintain sobriety; read on to learn more.
1. Peruse a New Hobby
Being active is a great way to distract your mind from old temptations. Whether you find peace in exercising daily, baking, creating art, etc., these hobbies can help keep your mind and body active. When you find ways to entertain yourself through a new hobby, you help clear your mind of old thoughts and behaviors that once fueled your addiction.
2. Take Care of Yourself
It may be easier said than done. However, taking care of yourself should always be the top priority as a new year’s resolution or not. When you take better care of yourself, you can better care for those around you. I know it sounds a bit counterintuitive but trust me, it makes a world of difference.
3. Practice Forgiveness
Looking toward the new year can create a lot of fear and anxiety. You may find yourself bringing back lots of old emotions or feelings, replaying old situations from the past, and worrying about maintaining your sobriety in the future. This is a great time to implement the practice of forgiveness. Forgive yourself for all you have done because you are a different person. And practice forgiveness when you have thoughts of self-doubt because that is normal human behavior.
4. Attend Meetings Regularly
Many recovering addicts believe that once they are finished with their recovery programs, they are clear from attending meetings and putting in the effort to stay sober. Unfortunately, this couldn’t be further from the truth. By attending meetings regularly, no matter how long ago you began your journey, you hold yourself accountable to maintain your sobriety. Meetings not only help to keep you actively sober, but they allow you to build a stronger support system to lean on in times of struggle.
5. Continue Creating a Support System
A strong support system is vital to a successful recovery throughout your journey. People you once knew and relationships you once had may no longer be. Being around people who support your choice to stay clean and sober this new year will make all the difference. Throughout this new year, continue creating a strong support system, whether that be rebuilding old relationships or creating new ones with supportive family and friends.
6. Strive for Growth One Day at a Time
There are 365 days in a year. It can feel overwhelming when you look at the bigger picture, but it doesn’t have to be. Take this new year one day at a time and remember that “No amount of guilt can change the past and no amount of worry can change the future” When you tackle your sobriety one day at a time, you will find it becomes more effortless. Of course, not every day will be as easy as others, but you can only strive for growth one day at a time.
New Year’s Resolutions to Maintain Sobriety: Conclusion
Whether you find yourself tempted to return to your old habits during this holiday season, you can regain control with some simple resolutions. After all, the entire point of a New Year’s resolution is to commit to trying something different and challenging. This can be an excellent way to maintain sobriety and improve your life.
While there are many methods in which someone might make new year’s resolutions to maintain sobriety, it is essential that they keep in mind that these resolutions must be realistic and attainable. If you find yourself struggling to fight your addiction, contact Serenity Springs Recovery Center. Our programs are dedicated to helping men fight their addictions once and for all.
