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In this article, we will discuss why only professionals can stay sober, while amateurs do not. We are not referring to professionals as white-collar workers, athletes, or those in traditional professions. Instead, we are talking about the mindset difference between professionals and amateurs.
Professionals put in the effort and follow through with their commitments. They get up and train even when they don’t feel like it. They hike, run, and swim despite any reluctance. Professionals are the ones at the pinnacle of their fields, whether in sports or any other area. It’s important to note that over 90% of people relapse within the first year, which highlights that those who succeed are the ones who adopt a professional approach. These are the people who make it.
Professionals put in the work
Consider Tiger Woods: his success wasn’t solely due to natural talent. While he might have been gifted, it was his relentless work ethic that set him apart. He got up early, even when he didn’t want to, and practiced tirelessly. He swung that golf club countless times, committed to staying healthy and fit, ensuring that when game time came, the question was only how well he would perform.
Similarly, think of Jerry Rice, one of the greatest wide receivers of all time. He was known for being the first to arrive at practice and the last to leave. While others partied, he stayed focused, running route after route. His dedication and refusal to be distracted by others’ lifestyles were key to achieving his goal of becoming the best wide receiver ever.
Professionals are consistent
This pattern repeats itself time and again. The individuals who achieve long-term recovery and maintain sobriety are often the happiest. Many people in early recovery often look around at others who have been sober for some time and wonder, “Why are these people so happy? Life seems over without the ability to drink, use drugs, or engage in the dishonest behaviors that used to provide a high.”
But the people who were genuinely happy were the ones putting in the work, and I’d argue that they’re the professionals. We might not refer to them as professional AAs or professional 12-steppers, but that’s essentially what they are. They’re pros because they consistently follow through and do the things they don’t necessarily want to do.
Professionals have accountability
Participating in Ironman competitions requires a lot of preparation, especially for someone new to it. Guidance was crucial, so these people worked with a coach who provided detailed plans for every aspect of the training. They had specialized coaches for swimming, running, and cycling and joined various training groups for each discipline. These groups provided multiple layers of accountability.
This structure mirrors the 12-step program, where a sponsor offers guidance by sharing a plan. The individual’s role is to follow this plan. Essentially, the sponsor doesn’t create a new plan; they pass down the one they received from their own sponsor. That’s the essence of how the process operates.
Why you need to be a pro to be sober
If you want to be clean and sober, and live a life that is happy, joyous, and free, you need to act like a professional. This means eliminating excuses and committing to the necessary actions. Attend meetings even when you don’t feel like it, and answer the phone when someone calls, especially if it’s the last thing you want to do. If you’re avoiding a meeting, that’s exactly when you should go. If you don’t feel like journaling, that’s the time you most need to do it. By consistently doing the things you don’t want to do, you’ll pave the way to a fulfilling life, staying clean and sober, setting an example, and becoming someone others admire.
It’s similar to the difference between having a victim mindset and a responsible mindset. Recently, Robert Kiyosaki discussed these concepts, emphasizing how people often make excuses for not fulfilling their responsibilities, like not paying rent due to having a job, feeling stressed, or having a large family. Kiyosaki’s reaction to these excuses was one of frustration, highlighting that they are just excuses. If someone is missing meetings, it suggests that attending may not be a priority for them. It’s okay if it’s not important right now; eventually, sobriety and long-term recovery may become more significant. There’s no judgment in that.
Why you need to learn from your mistakes
Nobody’s life is perfect, and not everyone follows through with everything all the time. People can be in a great place and love their lives while still making mistakes. The important thing isn’t whether mistakes will happen or if wrong decisions will be made, but rather learning from them. Individuals need to understand what led to their mistakes or relapses and avoid repeating them. It’s a process of growth and improvement. Many people make decisions that they later regret, but they can get better over time by reflecting on those experiences and making positive changes.
Why you need to set goals and be committed
It’s crucial to make decisions that align with your goals, whatever they may be—whether it’s completing an Ironman, tackling a Rim to Rim to Rim hike at the Grand Canyon, or achieving long-term sobriety. People often start their journey towards sobriety for reasons such as reconciling with a partner or addressing family issues. While these motivations can provide initial drive, sustainable change requires that the commitment is made for oneself. Long-term success is about finding personal fulfillment and purpose beyond the initial reasons that prompted the journey.
Conclusion
Adopt a professional mindset. Commit to following through with your plans and training, and avoid making excuses. Embrace the guidance from those who have achieved success in their fields. This approach is key to achieving your goals.
Resilient Home Living offers comprehensive treatment services for individuals dealing with mental health challenges, addiction, and alcoholism. If you or someone you know is facing these struggles, reach out to us for support. Visit our website at resilienthomeliving.com or email us at contact@resilienthomeliving.com to learn more about our programs. Let us assist you in building a strong foundation for a successful and rewarding recovery journey.