Surviving 2020 is in itself an achievement. As we welcome 2021, it is important to embrace an attitude of gratitude. While the past year may have been tough, especially for people in recovery, there are still a lot of things we have to be thankful for.
Being thankful can greatly help you in your sobriety journey. According to studies, there is a connection between gratitude and overall well being. Psychology research supports that being grateful has a consistent and strong association with greater happiness. This is because when you feel thankful, it helps you to feel more optimistic, improve your health, deal with tough situations, develop strong relationships, and enjoy better experiences. This could help you avoid relapse and feelings of anxiety or depression.
If you are struggling to find things to be thankful for, we’ve rounded up a list of things you can find inspiration in.
Be thankful for the opportunity to start fresh
If you are in your sobriety journey, be thankful for the chance to start a new life without addiction. While it is not always easy, being able to survive every day sober is a great accomplishment.
If you are still struggling with substance abuse, it is not too late to change. Every day is a new opportunity to start anew. As long as you’re breathing, you are given the gift of time to steer your life in a better direction.
Be thankful for past learnings
Regret is a normal thing. If you feel regretful of something that you’ve done in the past, including your substance abuse issues, it is not uncommon to feel that way. However, you should not dwell on these mistakes and continue blaming yourself for what happened. Instead, you should be thankful that you’ve overcome these things and treat them as learning experiences that can help you in the future. Use your troubled past as a reminder of why you are pursuing a sober path.
Be thankful for the special people in your life
One of the things you should be thankful for is the presence of people who support and love you through thick and thin. When you were in your active addiction, you may have taken for granted a lot of people in your life. Maybe you’ve even caused them grief and harm. This is the time to recognize them and thank them for not giving up on you and being there for you.
If you don’t have a lot of people in your life, don’t be upset because even if you only have one special person, this can be enough to get you through the toughest times.
Be thankful for your health and wellbeing
Substance abuse can take its toll on the body and mind. Once you are in recovery, it will take time before you reach your optimum health. But whatever state you are in right now, be thankful that you’re healthy enough to still read this at this moment. You can further show your gratitude by continuing to work towards being healthier mentally and physically.
Be thankful for access to basic necessities
Fresh air, clean water, food on the table, electricity, and shelter are basic necessities that many people take for granted. Not many people realize that millions of people around the world struggle to enjoy these things. If you have access to these necessities, consider yourself fortunate, and be thankful for them.
Be thankful for your talents, skills, and capabilities
Have you ever felt like you’re worthless and you’re not good for anything? Maybe these are words you’ve heard someone tell you. Hearing these things can cause you to feel depressed and turn to your previous addiction.
To help you feel thankful, write down a list of things you can do, things you are good at, and things that you are capable of doing. These skills do not need to be mind-bending, complex abilities. They can be as simple as writing, reading, jogging, cooking, fixing things around the house, using the internet, etc. You are a capable human being and you have a lot of potential. You have the ability to learn new things, explore new skills, and pursue new opportunities.
Be thankful for things that make you happy
What makes you happy? Is it being with your loved ones? Watching a good movie? Camping outdoors? Or maybe listening to your favorite song? Whatever makes you happy, be thankful for that. This can also help you realize that the world is not so bleak because there are still things that can put a smile on your face.
If you are struggling with substance abuse, help is available.
Contact Morningside Recovery by Lighthouse today.
