I remember deciding to really change my life and get sober. I took some time and thought about how my life would change. I thought about my social circle possible changing, which it did eventually as well as what my new purpose in life would be. For much of my life, I didn’t have many thoughts about that topic and it wasn’t until I was sitting in a process group, much like the ones we offer here at Believe Detox Center and the question was asked to me, has your purpose in life changed, or have you identified your purpose.
Before sobriety I was numb and didn’t think about making an impact in this world really. I simply didn’t think I was capable. I thought life was just go to work, pay the bills, drink hard when your off. Once I started taking the path of recovery though, things changed. It wasn’t easy at first, but overtime through speaking in groups, speaking to a therapist and having what to me was a new chance at life because I was no longer drinking, I wanted to have a purpose in this world.
Fast forward and I always ask the people that we work with at our detox center, what is your purpose?
You see, when I identified my purpose, I was able to work towards goals easier. I felt worth and when possible setbacks arose, it was and continues to be easier more and more over time to have a resilient mindset to overcome them when they come about. For a person in recovery, it also provides motivation in those times when its needed.
I encourage anyone who is trying to find their purpose in recovery or not to take time to self reflect. Identify your core values, especially now with a sober mind because some values may have changed. Reflect on family, what you may want to contribute to society. Also take time to reflect on your wellness. Also I always suggest exploring interests and passions. Volunteer in spaces, join groups, gain new experiences and you may find new passions or purpose along the way as well.
Another key component of someone in recovery finding their purpose is to set goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time bound and all the while creating a new lifestyle that compliments these things. Remember, recovery is not just about getting sober, it’s about replacing bad habits with health actions and anything related to those bad habits need to go to.
That being said, building a support network is so important as well. When I found my purpose in recovery and in life, I was able to maintain that lifestyle and continue to make progress going forward because I’m connected to people with similar goals as well. It is so key especially for those of us in recovery to build specifically a sober network because any goal pursued or otherwise is impacted by our sobriety. Also, creating healthy routines that support sobriety, stability and productivity should be implemented.
If you are someone in recovery I have to mention the importance of self care and mindfulness along the way of you living a new life filled with new purpose. Battling addiction is a marathon and we need to remember that in order to do the things needed to cross the finish line. If you need help finding support, don’t hesitate to reach out because the team and I here at Believe Detox Center are here to help you succeed not just getting sober and living a life of recovery, but helping people find their purpose as well while living a new life in recovery.
