Today is my 4 year sobriety anniversary. I always like to go back to the beginning on this day and dig out some off the work I did while in treatment. I thought I would share this card that I wrote 4 years ago to identify what the “real” me was at the time and then I wrote what the “ideal” me would do and how to change that behavior or feelings. Blows me away how over the span of 4 years almost all of these are second nature now. It reminds me that intentional behavior and hard work do pay off!!
Control freak –> Ask for help, accept that there are many ways to do things.
Impatient –> work on slowing my mind down with breathing exercises. See things from another perspective.
Dismissive –> really listen and hear what the person is saying, think on reaction/ judgement before acting.
Liar –> work diligently to live an honest lifestyle. Be okay with messing up and admit when I have done wrong.
Selfish –> Know that not everything can go my way. Be kinder of others’ needs and feelings. Work on empathy. Do things for others that doesn’t “benefit” me. Work on service.
Codependence with my mom –>Scheduling better, give her space to grow and find herself in her new stage of life.
Communication with Billy –> respect him as my husband, father to Skylar and best friend. Share my opinions and everyday issues and happenings. Be open and humble. Show weaknesses and vulnerabilities.
Lack of self-esteem –> activities to boost energy (gym, yoga) Daily affirmations. Keep working with therapy & techniques.
Avoid conflict –> face issues head on. Don’t be afraid to speak my mind- let others know what I need.
Loner –> make sure I have people (family, friends) in my life consistently. Be active in community and stay in touch with people.
Congratulations you took a negative and turned it to a positive
You are a role model to all
Congratulations. I’m not as good as Billy but I am an avid golfer too. 19 months for me on Sunday and life is a lot better for me and my family. Virtual AA meeting at 11 and golf this afternoon. I went downhill after the death of my wife in 2010. I wasn’t prepared for life with 3 teenagers and no spouse to lean on. Once I realized I was the problem I got the help I needed things are much better. One day at a time!
Celebrated 9 months today of being clean and sober, greatest 9 months of my life. I can identify with everything you wrote about transforming negative traits and having a positive and constructive way to approach life.
Go Brit! Your catching me and Meghan! So glad you are on this Journey!! Rob H
Congratulations, Brittany! Four years is great, and anniversaries are particularly great. How has it been?
I am an avid (but bad) golfer, and I will now watch you and Billy with added interest. Well, not quite “now,” but soon..
I have 29 years, 8 months sober. For my first year, I knew I couldn’t drink again, but was angry about it. At about my first anniversary, something changed: I knew I couldn’t drink again, and was happy about it! It really is a lot better on this side!
All best wishes,
Colin
I found your page through @heymadinelson and noticed you are a recovering alcoholic too. I am almost at 4 years sobriety and I will say that life is so much better. Love seeing other people succeed in life. Congratulations. 🥰