By Shawnmari Kaiser, LISW, LCSW
Congratulations! You have reached your goal(s)!! However, when we reach what we think is our destination in terms of change of habit, or lifestyle, we can anticipate a moment (or moments) in time that will unsteady us and cause us to consider returning to old habits/attitudes. Whether we are working on managing a temper or a physical habit like quitting smoking or weight management, life will throw us a curve ball, fast ball and/or screwball at some given point. It is important to plan ahead to avoid a setback. To do this you might imagine scenarios from your triggers list and work through how you would manage them. The more you prepare the better you can meet the challenges when they come.
It is common in recovery programs to employ the acronym H.A.L.T. to help ward off relapse. The letters warn us to not get too: hungry, angry, lonely, or tired. Any of these can leave us more vulnerable to temptations to shift back to old behaviors/attitudes. Take time in your day to check in with yourself and make modifications for self-care. As Christians, we can trust The Lord to help us when we stumble. We are encouraged, that if we keep relationship with Him at all times, He will direct our paths (Proverbs 3:5-6). We can do this by daily staying in the Word and talking to Him through prayerful thoughts. Also, it is important to stay in worship mode by way of gratitude for who He is, and all He has done and intends to do in your life (1Thessalonians 5: 16 – 19).
If a setback or relapse occurs, don’t give up. This happens to everyone to some degree or another. Acknowledge it, regroup, take note of what may have thrown you off, and recalibrate yourself. Shame will not benefit you. If a relationship was damaged (that could mean with yourself even) in the wake of the relapse, make apologies and amends and move forward.
You are the worth the work and commitment. Now go and celebrate!
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