Addiction is a bad habit, among many other things. Yes, addiction is far more destructive than nail biting or other bad habits, but addiction is a negative way of coping. Addiction often becomes the go-to behavior when excited, sad, happy, or when you experience many other emotions.

In order to have a good chance at true recovery, you have to change your habits and develop new, more positive ones. This is easier said than done, but changing habits is possible. There are a few steps to follow when replacing old habits with more positive ones.

You want to ask yourself what your motivation is.

Without a goal in mind, the journey towards your goals will be unclear. Take a moment to write down what your motivation is to begin new habits and stop engaging in substance use. Perhaps your goal is family, financial, career, or just personal growth. Whatever your goal is, keep it in the forefront of your mind.

Replace the old with the new.

You can’t expect to just put down bad habits without replacing them with newer, more positive habits. If you want to stop smoking, drinking, or using drugs, going to treatment is the first and best option. When you get out of treatment, you want to have an arsenal of good habits to choose from.

Here are some positive habits to replace old habits with:

• Exercise
• Meditation
• Hiking
• Spending time outdoors
• Going to the spa
• Getting a massage
• Taking a pottery class
• Biking
• Learning new skills
• Coloring, painting, or drawing
• Journaling
• Listening to music

Finding people who share your new interests is also key. You want to surround yourself with positive influences. You can start by going to a 12 step meeting to meet people who are in recovery. You can also find people who share your interest by joining a meetup or social group for people who enjoy the same types of activities as you.

Next, plan on setting time aside to pursue your interests and enjoy your new habits. Keep in mind that you want to be patient with yourself. Ending old, destructive habits and starting new, positive habits is a change. Change takes time, focus, and commitment.

The Kimberly Center understands how challenging recovery can be. The Kimberly Center also knows how enjoyable and worthwhile recovery is. Call us now at 855-4-KCENTER. We are committed to putting you and your recovery first. At the Kimberly Center you are our priority.