The Recovery Process/Part II

V. Examination is the fifth stage of the recovery process

A. Examination is an honest investigation of self
1. Total honesty is needed in self-examination
2. All attitudes and behaviors, and how they may need to be changed are included
in the examination stage.
3. Examination includes identifying and establishing priorities which will support recovery.

B. The stage of examination parallels the Step Four Inventory Process of A.A./N.A..
C. Examination is an ongoing, maturing process that may take a lifetime.
D. The perceptions of others is needed in the examination process (i.e. professional, sponsors, etc.).

VI. Changing roles and labels is the sixth stage of the recovery process
A. As I continue in recovery, I will identify myself differently.

1. "I'm a victim."
2. "I'm confused".
3. "I'm an alcoholic/I'm an addict

There are many ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle free of self-defeating behavior. Your recovery plan will be your own creation and will be different from anyone else's. This conversation is meant to give you a starting point and a framework to design your own program. It won't be a finished product when you are done---there will be more questions. It will provide you with a method you can fall back on when things get difficult and confusing.

When you think about your recovery, what do you want to accomplish? Above and beyond stating clean and sober, some things many people want to work toward include control over their actions; self-respect and dignity; peace of mind; the ability to enjoy life; the respect of others; more satisfying relationships; improved health; career progress; and improved financial status. There are many others but I will leave you to list them.