It is easy to be happy when life is going smoothly and everything seems to be going your way. But sometimes, that happiness does not come easily. This is especially common with recovering addicts that have been relying on substances for that perceived ‘happiness’. On top of that, recovering from an addiction is not easy. It comes with challenges that one has to navigate if one wants to stay sober. Here are a few tips that can help you find some happiness in your recovery journey.
Open Up to Others
It can be dangerous to try and bottle your emotions during this time. Keeping things to yourself will affect both your mental and physical health. If you feel like there is no one close to you, you can confide in consider finding a therapist. Talking it out helps you release buried emotions, and you will feel better afterward. The therapist will also give you tips on how to cope so that you can improve yourself.
Avoid Making Comparisons
In the world of social media, it is easy to assume everyone is doing better than you. Trying to compare yourself with others will only leave you feeling dissatisfied. In recovery, do not compare your progress with that of other patients. Everyone’s recovery journey is different. You can learn more info about how you can start your own journey and achieve sobriety. If you start looking at other people’s progress to a point where you belittle what you have done, it will be hard to stay sober. There is nothing wrong with admiring someone’s progress and aspiring to achieve that yourself. However, you should only look at it as a motivation to stay sober and not as a discouraging factor.
Practice Gratitude
According to research, practicing gratitude consistently can enhance happiness in recovery. This is because it allows you to experience more positive emotions. You can practice gratitude by listing down at least 3 to 5 things you are grateful for. You can also note down what you can do to make a day or situation better. Focusing on positive things instead of the negatives can help even when facing challenges like cravings. You can tell yourself it is just a temporary feeling that will be gone shortly.
Let Go of The Past
Your past can be a big hindrance to your recovery. It can be hard to move forward when living in the past. Instead, try and let go of it. You cannot change the mistakes you made in the past, so acceptance is the best route. Take responsibility for the mistakes you made, forgive yourself, and let go. This will free you from any negativity.
Take Some Time Off
When you are feeling exhausted both mentally and physically, take some time to rest. This is a form of self-care which will result in you feeling happier. Do not feel bad about saying no to others. Sometimes, being there for other people can take a toll on you. You also need time to be there for yourself. Take that time to do something you love, whether it is reading a book, watching a movie, doing a hobby, or taking a walk.
Unplug From Your Phone
Technology has come with numerous benefits, but sometimes it can be overwhelming to keep up with your phone. The endless emails, texts, calls, notifications can prevent you from relaxing. Unplug, whether it is a whole day, half a day, or even an hour. Participate in other activities like hanging out with friends or spending time with family. You will feel happier after that.
Happiness plays an important role in your recovery. It will motivate you to stay sober and see that there is much more to life than drugs or substances. If you are on your recovery journey, use a few of these tips as they will help you.