Don’t Let Expectations Hold You Back
Expectations can drastically change the course and outcome of any relationship or situation for all people. Because of this, having expectations can be especially dangerous for addicts and alcoholics. If you expect something and it turns out differently, your reaction defines your relationship with recovery. We are reactionary people, but the stronger our sobriety, the less likely we will react. Rather, we respond to life and let go of the expectation that we can control people, places, and things.
If you are considering going into treatment, you probably have a lot of expectations of what your experience will be like. More often than not, the things we expect to happen, don’t. Sometimes we assume the worst, and things turn out a lot better than we anticipated. Other times, we expect the best and it takes a turn downward.
Both negative and positive expectations are defense mechanisms we use to protect ourselves from fear, and to stave off disappointment and sadness for as long as we can. If you are fearful of treatment right now, you may be surprised to find out that it’s actually comfortable and the people you meet could quite possibly become lifelong friends.
Learn to Let Go
Learning to let go of expectations is difficult, but with practice, it is possible. Just like we can’t control our drinking or using, we can’t control what other people think or do, or how our boss feels about us, or whether our family will ever speak to us again. What we can control, is how we respond to others. Instead of reacting immediately to someone or something, try to step back, give yourself however much time you need, and then respond appropriately. Talking it over to someone else in recovery can help, too.
We hope that you can place your expectations of treatment aside, and come see for yourself. Not everyone gets the opportunity for a second chance, and if you are one of the lucky ones, we want to help you reach your goals of recovery. Give us a call, your journey can begin today, and we will help you get sober safely, comfortably, and in the most supportive environment possible.
The Lakehouse Recovery Center offers private, residential care. Our program brings together recovery and non recovery focused treatments to help clients heal and learn how to live life again, without drugs and alcohol. Call us today for information: 877.762.3707