We could all use a 12 step program…

Welcome to another week and to Sunday Morning Coffee. Is it just me or is the summer flying by? I could do without the triple digit heat and high humidity, but I really love the vibe of summer. And time seems to be moving faster the older I get.

Speaking of time flying, the nonprofit that my two partners and I launched a year ago celebrates the first anniversary of our 12 step group meetings we hold weekly in DC. I have to miss it, but we’re going all out with a full meal (Borden’s an amazing chef) and everyone celebrating their sobriety. How cool is that?

I’ve never had an issue with addiction (unless we count coffee), so I’ve learned a lot over the years of working with people who struggle with addiction or are in recovery. If you study the Big Book and the process involved in the 12 steps, you’ll quickly see its applications to facing any challenge. Its principles can be applied to various life challenges. Originally developed by Alcoholics Anonymous, the 12 steps offer a structured approach to personal growth and healing. It encourages self-reflection, accountability, and the cultivation of a supportive community, making it versatile enough to address a variety of difficulties beyond addiction.

The journey begins with acknowledging that there’s a problem. Admitting powerlessness over a challenge is often the most difficult yet crucial step. This admission isn’t about surrendering to the problem but about recognizing that you can’t manage it alone. It paves the way for seeking help and opens the door to change.

Next, the process involves turning to a higher power for guidance and support. This higher power doesn’t necessarily have to be religious; it can be any source of strength and inspiration that offers a sense of comfort and direction. Embracing this concept allows individuals to tap into a well of resilience and hope, providing a foundation for the transformative work ahead. It helps to remember that there are things bigger than ourselves.

Self-examination follows, where you take a thorough and honest inventory of your actions, thoughts, and behaviors. This step encourages deep reflection and helps identify patterns that contribute to the problem. By understanding these patterns, you can start to address the underlying issues that fuel your challenges.

Confession is the next critical phase, where individuals share their findings with someone they trust. This act of sharing not only alleviates the burden of carrying secrets but also fosters accountability and strengthens relationships. It’s a step towards healing through openness and honesty.

Following confession, there’s a commitment to change. Individuals actively work on correcting their behaviors and attitudes, making amends where necessary. This step involves continuous self-monitoring and a dedication to personal growth. It is about taking responsibility for your actions and making a sincere effort to improve.

Maintaining progress requires ongoing reflection and adjustment. Regularly reviewing your actions and their impact helps keep the process on track. It’s important to recognize achievements and setbacks alike, using them as learning opportunities to refine one’s approach.

Seeking to improve through prayer or meditation is another integral part of the program. These practices help individuals stay connected to their higher power, offering a sense of peace and purpose. They provide a means to cultivate inner strength and clarity, which are essential for overcoming life’s hurdles.

Finally, the program emphasizes the importance of helping others. Sharing one’s journey and supporting others in their struggles not only reinforces personal growth but also builds a sense of community and mutual aid. It transforms the healing process into a collective effort, where individuals draw strength from each other.

Can you see how you could apply these strategies to your own life, even if it’s not to addiction? Applying the 12-step principles to any life challenge involves a commitment to self-awareness, personal responsibility, and community support. It’s about understanding that while the journey may be difficult, it’s not one that has to be undertaken alone. Working through the steps and building a community that will not only go with you on this journey we call life but will support you along the way can help you to navigate challenges with resilience and hope.

To all of my peeps who are in recovery and keeping it real every day, I raise my coffee cup to you. It’s a challenge, but you’re doing it, day-by-day. To those of you who haven’t had to struggle with addiction, I hope you’re also finding a way to fight your own demons and challenges day-by-day, and I trust that none of us are doing this life-work alone!

If you’re interested in starting a 12 step program in your organization or commuity, contact me. Our nonprofit Hand2Heart DC loves getting the healing process up and running! If you’re looking for a strong healing community in DC, give me a shout so that I can tell you where we meet each week.

Tallyho ya’ll!