The ups and downs of recovery are part of the process of getting sober. Some days you will be riding a pink cloud and other days you will be picking up the pieces of loneliness and despair caused from the wreckage of your past. This long and winding road in sobriety can be better managed through the practice of recovery tools that can incorporate gratitude along the way. One of the absolute proven ways to combat these down days is with gratitude.

People who are happy are typically thankful for what they have and try to focus on the positive aspects that are going on. Instead of worrying about what someone said on social media, impatiently wondering why the line at Starbucks is not moving or complaining about the traffic on the freeway when they left later than they should, someone who wants to be happy, joyous, and free will stop looking at what is happening to them and start being grateful for what is being provided to them. Gratitude will come more naturally by implementing a few key practices into your life.

In all things see gratitude

As positive things happen to you, identify them immediately and say “thank you” out loud or in your head. Let’s say you pull into a parking lot and the parking space right in front of the door is open just for you, let your Higher Power know you see their work. Starting with the simplest of blessings can set you up to see the bigger things in life that you have going for you.

Embrace imperfection

There is no such thing as unending perfection. You may see things that appear to be perfect in the moment, but just know that these are fleeting moments that do not always occur. This may lead you to focus on the things that you consider not done well. Rather than beat yourself up over the imperfections in your recovery, look for the things that you accomplished no matter how big or small. Showing up for a meeting, calling a newcomer, or not thinking about drinking or using for today may seem small, but these are relatively positive things that make a difference in gaining some self-worth.

Gratitude is such an important aspect for recovery and unfortunately this aspect is really difficult for many to achieve. Start somewhere as you begin to grow your gratitude and in return you will start to see how much better life can be.

The Kimberly Center is an evidence-based treatment facility that helps someone who is suffering from drug and alcohol addiction. Successful recovery encompasses improvements in self-esteem, vocational productivity, and interpersonal relationships which is what is our goal is with your unique treatment program.

Call us today to begin: 855-4-KCENTER (855-452-3683)