recovering addict

7 Good Habits Every Recovering Addict Should Have

By

Sober Recovery Expert Author

recovering addict

Our habits can either make or break us. Good ones can foster happiness, while bad ones have the power to take away our inner peace and joy. When you’re in recovery, it’s important to take the time to build habits that will supplement your journey and help you enjoy much more bliss as you approach each day.

Here are 7 good habits that every recovering addict should have.

Cultivating good habits can help you to feel happier and more productive in life.

1. Being around positive people.

When you’re in recovery, it’s a great idea to surround yourself with positive people. If you have a habit of isolating yourself, be determined to break out of that bubble immediately. You may end up harboring negative emotions and end up caving into relapse. Many recovering addicts in 12-Step groups also regularly check in with their sponsors so they can stay accountable and connected. It’s a good idea to always stay in touch with at least one person who can give you support and encouragement during your recovery journey.

2. Smiling.

Smiling is contagious. Not only does it help you feel better, it also has a positive ripple effect on those around you. Make it a habit to smile as often as possible and go about your day beaming happiness towards others.

3. Getting plenty of sleep.

Lack of sleep can make for a long day with frazzled nerves. When you’re running low on energy due to short sleep hours, it can stress you out and become a quick trigger for relapse. Take care of yourself and try to have the same bedtime each evening—it’s one of the best habits you can build for yourself. This will help you have a well-rested mind and body every single day.

4. Sticking to a budget.

If you’ve never made a financial budget yet, go ahead and do so. Once it’s complete, do your best to stick to it. Those that set financial limits and keep budgets are usually more financially successful than those who don’t, so it’s a great habit to cultivate.

5. Setting goals.

Another great habit to have in recovery is goal-setting. By setting short and long-term goals for yourself, you build momentum towards actually accomplishing them. Make it a habit to write down your goals. There’s something about seeing them on paper that increases the likelihood you’ll commit to them. From time to time, also take a moment to measure your progress, reevaluate old goals or set brand new ones.

6. Being generous to others.

Moving forward in your recovery with a kind and generous heart will make you feel so much better about yourself, so try to make it a habit. Giving to others is such a magical experience that not only warms the receiver’s heart, but yours as well. Take the time to regularly help others in whatever way you can.

7. Staying spiritually inspired.

Just like you need to sustain your physical body with nutritious food, your soul needs to be sustained with regular inspiration. For some, this could mean reading something uplifting. For others, it may mean going to a 12-Step meeting a few times per week. Figure out what gives your soul nourishment and make those things a habit.

Maintaining long-term sobriety requires that you develop good habits. While cultivating them may seem like work at first, actively practicing them on a regular basis will eventually turn the activities into an effortless part of life. Throughout your recovery journey, these habits can help shield you from temptation and keep you walking on a straight path—one that leads to a life lived to its fullest potential.

If you or someone you know is seeking help from addiction, please visit our directory of treatment centers or call 800-772-8219 to speak to a treatment specialist.

Stay Connected
Subscribe to our newsletter to get addiction help, recovery inspiration and community tips delivered to your inbox.
No Thanks. I'm not Interested