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Deck the Halls: 7 Tips for Staying Sober During the Holidays!

 

The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and celebration. For those of us in the early years of recovery, it can be a challenging time to stay sober. The holidays are a time when many of us relapse from emotional stress or the abundant temptations all around us.

 

Here are seven tips to discovering a joyful holiday season and staying sober during the holidays:

 

  1. The greatest gift you can give yourself this holiday season is to get or stay sober. Make your sobriety your top priority! Every choice you make about how you spend your holidays this year comes from that priority. If it’s time to get into treatment or sober living, give yourself that enormous gift! Your family and friends will appreciate your commitment to sobriety!
  2. Create a new holiday tradition inspired by gratitude. When we take the time to focus on what we are grateful for, there is little space for worry or stress. We are filled with what is truly meaningful. Let gratitude be your guide.
  3. Volunteer. In the spirit of gratitude, volunteer somewhere you can be of service and stay sober during the holidays. You might volunteer at your local AA or NA clubhouse at the holiday gathering or a local shelter. It’s a gift to be of service and a great way to make new friends.
  4. Create a delicious mocktail and enjoy it at the holiday gatherings you attend.
  5. Draw on your community of support during the holidays. Attend more meetings and set up a way to stay connected with your sponsor and support circle throughout the holidays.
  6. Plan ahead. Create a holiday plan that makes your sobriety your #1 priority. That may mean brief appearances at some family or work holiday gatherings where alcohol is served, or potential triggers are. Take a sober buddy with you and have an exit plan.
  7. Practice mindfulness and self-care. Be gentle with yourself and others. Remember what is most important, and take time to reflect and breathe. Get a massage, take a long walk, and enjoy the things that bring you peace and happiness.

Make this holiday season a gift to you! The greatest gift of all–your sobriety! Share the holidays with your sober community and reach out safely to your family and friends. Enjoy new traditions inspired by gratitude and being of service.

Happy Holidays!

 

Steps in the Right Direction

If you are ready to give yourself the gift of staying sober this holiday season, reach out to us at Steps in the Right Direction in the San Fernando Valley, California.

Our mission is to provide you with a luxurious sober living experience within a safe and healing community designed for you to build a foundation for lasting recovery.

Our holidays at Steps in the Right Direction are filled with joyful traditions, delicious foods, music, laughter, and love.

Come join us. Your sober living journey begins here.

Contact Linda Butler at (818) 231-1400 to schedule a tour at our women’s or men’s sober living home.

 

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