Sometimes it’s a good idea to take a step back, reassess, and then start over again. Our recovery from growing up in an alcoholic/dysfunctional family is a lifelong process. How we handle ourselves under pressure, stress, and challenges can be tested on a daily basis.
On a personal level, I had a difficult last few days. I’m looking for a new job and living through the coronavirus pandemic. I’ve been stressed out, tired, and feeling overwhelmed.
When I have felt this way in the past, I typically press onward and work hard to push through the difficult time. However, that never works. Instead, I become irritable, more exhausted, and often lose my temper. I’m being honest with you. I know my weaknesses, who I am, and what does and doesn’t work for me. Unfortunately, that doesn’t mean that I listen to reason.
But I’m putting the brakes on moving forward and in trying to push through a difficult time. Instead, I’m using the skills that have helped me in the past.
For me, that means going back to the beginning of the twelve steps. The first step is:
“We admitted we were powerless over the effects of alcoholism or other family dysfunction, that our lives had become unmanageable.”
Why is this important?
I’m acknowledging and taking the time to admit how I feel, to process my feelings, and to work on letting go. I’m not saying that I do not have work to do. No, that’s not the case. By admitting that I’m powerless over the effects of alcoholism or the dysfunction I grew up with, I’m able to not shoulder undo pain and suffering. By resetting the stage, I’m allowing myself the space to heal.
For today, what would happen if you took time to stop, think, and rethink where you are in your life?
How would that feel? Would you be scared, worried, or would it be liberating to give yourself more time?
Why don’t you stop to find out?
Like what you’ve read? Be sure to check out my other posts in my Let Go and Be Free blog.