Back to Blog Posts
Recovery from an addiction of any kind can be a long and arduous process. While someone may be showing dedication and progress in their recovery, there are dangers associated with rushing through the process. Recovery, while a very personal journey, also involves several different steps. From outpatient therapy programs, 12-step programs, and transformational living facilities, there are many obstacles that someone has to address before they are reintroduced to all of the world’s stressors. Taking the time to prepare for the journey of recovery is essential. It can be the difference needed to see recovery comprehensively rather than abandon the recovery process early.
The Importance of Taking Your Time in Recovery
Taking your time in recovery is critical for several reasons. Learning coping skills and grounding strategies is essential, but it is also only a part of the recovery process. Recovery is also about establishing a new, transformational lifestyle, regardless of addiction to any particular substance or behavior. Recovery is about finding new hobbies and interests that include healthy, sober activities. By taking the time to address all of the steps in recovery and develop a sense of identity, it is possible to create a plan. A plan is not just for dealing with an urge to re-engage with an addictive substance or behavior but also involves future ideas.
Becoming Mentally Prepared for the Changes Ahead
It can be difficult to conceptualize what life will be like in recovery while only at the beginning of the journey. It is essential to internalize the importance of being open to new changes and experiences. Change in recovery can encompass a much broader scope to change habits or address relationships with an addictive substance or behavior. Someone must also mentally prepare to have their social circles adjusted, either by letting go of friendships or opening oneself up to the idea of making new friends and acquaintances that can share in one’s difficulties in the recovery process. It might mean that someone has to let go of certain things they used to love, such as avoiding Super Bowl celebrations if they were closely tied to drinking. Those in recovery will have the opportunity for new experiences that they may have once avoided or disregarded, such as being willing to try different meditations, sports or physical exercise, or trying out art therapy. While not every program will be a perfect fit for each person, it is vital to try as many routes as possible in recovery. Finding what works for an individual can help someone engage with themselves about their difficulties and future goals.
Preparing for Transitional Living
Preparing for moving into a transitional living environment is another crucial step in someone’s recovery. Transitional living provides an opportunity to continue to learn and develop coping skills and build identity while also being in a safe environment to learn skills for the “real world.” While it can be tempting to bring everything that someone has to their new living space, it is essential to remember this is a time for detachment. Transitional living is an opportunity for someone to focus on their recovery and their new future. When preparing to move into a transitional living facility, it is necessary to pack clothes, towels, toiletries, books, or DVDs. Personal items such as a photograph of loved ones, a journal, keychain, or trinket can also help reinforce someone’s decision to pursue recovery.
Transformation living is intended to help someone distinguish their past from their future by instilling new practices, techniques, and mindsets. Each step of the recovery process is about looking to the future. Being open to both what changes need to be actively made in life and what parts of the past may best be left behind to transform identity will help aid in the recovery process.
The recovery process requires a copious amount of change. The caring professionals at START UP RECOVERY are available today to help you take the first step towards your transformational journey. Your stay with us can be personalized to fit your needs and goals in recovery. You will also work alongside professionals, peers, and mentors to develop your strengths and address your recovery vulnerabilities. A luxurious atmosphere of community and fellowship permeate each program and allow each person to explore the many different routes to recovery and self-actualization in their lives. Preparing for change is difficult, and START UP RECOVERY can help you take the first steps towards your transformation while providing needed support. For more information on how your stay with us can be personalized to help you and your interests or to speak to a trained staff member about your unique circumstance and concerns, call us today at (310) 773-3809.