Your time in treatment has given you a wealth of tools to use for engaging in relationships. Relationships are the foundation of making meaning in life. Now that you are on the path of recovery from substance abuse or a mental illness, you have found a new meaning in your life. Developing relationships is one of the great gifts of recovery. Without the presence of drugs, alcohol, and harmful behaviors, you can be present in your relationships. Actively participating in your communication with others and growing a community of friends will be, as The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous puts it, “an experience you must not miss.”
Life will take on new meaning. To watch people recover, to see them help others, to watch loneliness vanish, to see a fellowship grow up about you, to have a host of friends — this is an experience you must not miss. We know you will not want to miss it.!
Consider these five tips for getting involved in your community:
Seek opportunities to be of service
Being service is one of the best way to shake the clingy feelings of discomfort. Getting out of self and into helping others is a guaranteed way to feel present. When attending a new meeting or community event, ask an organizer how you can be more involved. Ask to provide the refreshments, music, or games. Put together an event for newcomers (you were one too once!). Or maybe volunteer to read a passage from a book or poem that spoke to you, and gave you hope.
Remember, commitments equal accountability. Showing up for your responsibilities is good for your community and good for your recovery.
Reach out to newcomers
Whatever meeting or support group you choose, look for newcomers. Not so long ago, you were new and frightened. Hands were reached out to you, inspiring you to trust the process and feel comfortable around others. Now is your turn to do the same for someone new. Invite them to speak, guide them along their journey too, or just let them know you’re there.
Try new things
Have an interest in art you’ve never pursued, or a food you’ve always wanted to try? Recovery has given you a new chance at life, full of endless possibility. Take chances and try new things! You’ll feel fresh, engaged, and have changing opportunities to meet new people. And meeting new people is an important part of the recovery process.
Accept invitations
You don’t have to be the “yes man” but you don’t have to be the “no man” either. Getting to know people can be strange at first, but learning to accept invitations and step out of your comfort zone to attend a new event is a great learning activity. Practice your skills in new situations.
Allow yourself to feel a part of
You’ve worked hard to feel at home in yourself. Establishing that foundation allows you to feel at home anywhere you go. And feeling yourself again is a step in your journey that must be celebrated.
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