As we pointed out in our previous blog post, New Year’s resolutions can really change your life—as long as they are the right type of resolutions—the realistic, simple, day-by-day type of goals because these are the ones that will last. These are the ones that can help to refresh you along your recovery journey.
This blog is the second blog post in our sequel on new year’s resolutions. If you haven’t read the first one, you can check it out too.
4. Thank One Person a Month
As you probably know, gratitude is one of the key components of recovery. And you do have a lot of people to thank. From the friend who was there for you during that rough time in life to your rehab counselor, there are a lot of people you can thank. Even the guy who picks up your trash every week deserves a thanks now and then.
This coming year, designate a certain day in the month to be “Gratitude Day.” Write an email or send a card to that special person who made a difference in your life. A note of gratitude, no matter how short, leaves a sweet aroma in the heart of the receiver and can be as much of an encouragement to them as they were to you.
5. Write (at least) 10 Minutes a Day in Your Journal
A journal can be one of the world’s greatest teachers because journals combine personal experience with self-reflection. A journal is a place where you jot down your frustrations and triumphs, the activities that helped you stay sober, or how you were inspired by that great book you were reading. In a way, your journal becomes your story.
You don’t have to write something the size of a Harry Potter sequel or even make everything grammatically correct. Just write. Pretty soon, you’ll find yourself enjoying it. Maybe you’ll even find youself needing to write.
What’s priceless about a journal is that you can look back and read what you wrote and be encouraged by how far you have come. You can learn from past experiences, or accurately share your story with others.
It’s a pretty good deal.
And, oh, journals come in some really cool styles!
6. Start a Hobby
The best way to start something new is usually to learn about it and then get involved. So join a club or take a class about. . . something, anything. Painting, graphic design, PhotoShop, photography, a woodworking class, guitar lessons, mountain climbing, a Jane Austen book club—you get the idea. (Ok, maybe not the Jane Austen book club.)
The point is, your addiction used to be a big part of your life, and the void needs to be filled with something meaningful once the addiction is gone. New friends, new schedule, and new enjoyments must replace old ones. Getting involved with something new is an excellent way to enjoy your recovery and start off the new year.
Number 7 . . . and beyond
Do you have any other ideas? Have you made resolutions in the past that enhanced your recovery experience? Add to the list in the comments below: