Anticipation, on the other hand, is living with a loose grip and being willing to accept the gift that is the moment at hand. Expectations demand; while anticipation waits in wonder. During the holiday season, remember to regularly take stock of what unmet expectations could be robbing you of your holiday joy. Accepting life on life’s terms requires living with the loose grip of anticipation rather than the tight fist of expectation. If you or a loved one are overcoming a relapse or facing addiction for the first time, you can find treatment today. Browse our website to find a treatment center to contact today.
Behavioral Addictions And The Holidays
When we live in a state of expectation, we will almost always be disappointed. Not only do our expectations serve to rob us of the joy of the moment, but they also have a way of getting transmitted to those around us. Expectations set the stage for our feelings of entitlement. Nothing can lead us to entitlement faster than resentments.
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- Millions of Americans live with some form of drug or alcohol addiction, and many are in recovery.
- You, nor your loved one, are under any obligation to commit to a Legacy Healing Center treatment program when calling the helpline.
- Everyone is running on empty, and the annual fight is just waiting to happen.
- I was sober, but instead of binge drinking on the weekends, I was binge-watching Netflix and eating pizza like a champ instead.
Our team of professionals is here to support, guide, and inspire you. Lastly, it’s important to be firm but sober holidays compassionate about your boundaries. Put your foot down regarding things you don’t want to do but be nice about.
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Family members expect holiday perfection, and they often demand every ounce of your time and energy—and patience. The family menu is a constant carb-load, and traveling puts a strain on your wallet. Packed airports, tight schedules, liquid lunch for Aunt Sally. Everyone is running on empty, and the annual fight is just waiting to happen. Mindfulness is one particularly helpful strategy https://ecosoberhouse.com/ to combat stress.
Set Realistic Expectations
- Expectations set the stage for our feelings of entitlement.
- Writing down your plans ahead of time can give you a roadmap for what to do when and if you encounter specific situations.
- If you come prepared to protect your sobriety, you should be able to outmaneuver addiction and avoid any potential relapses.
- Instead of dreading the onset of a holiday, spend the time planning, thinking through possible outcomes, and what to do in response.
“Take the lead in planning nonalcoholic activities, whether that’s taking a hike, canoeing, or something else active that doesn’t give you time to have an alcoholic beverage in hand,” she suggested. Remember, the disease of addiction is as powerful the day after a holiday as it is the day of and the day before. As we learn during addiction rehab and in the meeting rooms, recovery is a one-day-at-a-time endeavor, no matter the season.
