Finding Gratitude in Your Daily Life

In recovery, you’ll hear a lot of people speak about gratitude. There are a lot of things to be grateful when you’re able to quit using a substance you’re addicted to. For one thing, you’re here, and you’re alive. You have been clean and sober for however many days, which is more than you were before. It’s true that becoming addicted and getting sober isn’t an easy path, but you’re brave enough to have begun your journey. Sometimes, however, it’s hard to find gratitude.

Why Be Grateful?

Gratitude is a form of humility that helps you change your attitude in life. Many people with substance abuse issues tend to be pessimistic or feel depressed, ashamed, or just “bad” in general. While you will stabilize soon after you detox from drugs, not every day is going to be fun. Now that you’re clean and sober, it’s time to do the hard work of changing yourself. It helps to have a humble attitude – and a bit of gratitude for what you currently have.

Creating Gratitude

Gratitude isn’t just an emotion or attitude. For many people in recovery, it’s a verb. Being grateful is something you can show through your actions. Help set up or take down chairs at 12-step or therapy meetings. Bring some donuts or cookies. Tell somebody you appreciated what they shared. Find something that inspires or moves you, and thank the universe/your higher power for it.

You’re going to have some difficult days, no matter how many years you’ve been clean and sober. Living with gratitude in mind can help you realize there is it a lot of good that’s happened since you’ve been clean and sober. A life of gratitude is a life worth keeping. Your sobriety is very precious.

Even if you only have a few days clean and sober, you still have things to be grateful for. Did you sleep in a warm bed? Did you have a good meal? Did anyone do something to help you today?

Try to think of five things that make you feel good every day. Write them down. Even if it’s just a pretty sunset or a juicy orange you ate at lunch, there’s something that went right today.

Getting Help

Do you or somebody you love have a problem with substance use? We can help you reclaim your life. Our programs focus on the whole person, not just the addiction. We provide the support you need in a scenic and holistic spiritual setting. Learn to reconnect with yourself and heal as you start your journey in recovery. Give us a call at US (949) 279-1376 • MX (612) 153-5726.