You’ve heard the expression, “Take things one day at a time.” What does that mean exactly? Furthermore, how can you do that when every part of you yearns to reach the goal and see your hard work pay off? Undoubtedly, it can be difficult to have the patience to take things day by day.
However, whether you are struggling with mental health issues or facing a long road to recovery from addiction, you often do not have the luxury of rushing things. Instead, you have to take things as they come, sometimes living moment by moment.
At First Steps Recovery, our mission is to help you reach your goal of living a lifetime of sobriety. Sometimes it may mean facing one day at a time or even one moment at a time. No matter how long it takes, though, together we will reach the end of the road.
Beginning the Healing Journey One Day at a Time
Taking one day at a time can seem like a hard way to live life. We live in a world that is focused on instant gratification. Quite prevalent is the idea that all of our wants can be satisfied by just reaching out and taking hold of our desires. While this may be a convenient way to live, it is not the best way to achieve satisfaction.
Some of the best things in life are those we have to work for. Living in an always-on world of instant gratification can have some pretty negative side effects, too. This can include being tired all of the time. A constantly on-the-go pace of life can leave us feeling tired and weak. When we feel that way, we can become hungry, angry, and lonely. These can be triggers for resorting to unhealthy coping mechanisms.
Some self-help groups call this combination of symptoms HALT. When you are Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired, you are more likely to engage in substance abuse. On the other hand, taking things as they come can make you less stressed and more rested. Sometimes the best way to beat stress is to unplug, focus on your needs, and let go. In other words, the best way to live is to take things one day at a time.
What Does Recovery Require?
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) highlights the key aspects of the recovery process. NIDA discusses how recovery extends beyond the mere cessation of substance use. Recovery involves addressing the underlying causes, rebuilding a healthy lifestyle, and establishing a support system. By exploring the various dimensions of recovery, you can gain a deeper understanding of the commitment required for sustainable healing.
The Recovery Process, One Day at a Time
Taking one day at a time is also about understanding the journey to recovery. Being in recovery first involves getting treatment. When you are in treatment, you are working toward recovery but have not gotten there yet. Treatment is where you learn the tools necessary to live a safe and sober life in recovery.
After treatment, recovery becomes a process where you learn to live a healthy life with the tools you have gained in treatment. You learn to promote your own health and wellness. When you overcome your illness, you are in remission. Finally, when you adopt the lifestyle you learned about in treatment, you can say you are in recovery.
Being in recovery means you can face each day as it comes, one day at a time. You may stumble and fall, but you have the tools to get back up and try again. It is that simple.
Finding Your Peace in Recovery
Creating an atmosphere of patience and calm so that clients can take one day at a time is one of the primary missions at First Steps Recovery. We understand that in order to learn the skills to live a healthy life, our clients must be able to find the tranquility and peace they need to let go of the chaos and embrace the serenity.
At our treatment center, you will find that your safety and comfort are some of our top priorities. We are committed to your success by bringing you a holistic approach to recovery. At First Steps Recovery you will find your treatment needs met with the best of clinical care in an environment with all the amenities you need to thrive and relax.
Our philosophy brings you an approach that includes individual treatment plans and therapy sessions that focus on your holistic well-being. We use evidence-based practices to ensure you receive the best care. One day we know we will watch as you graduate from treatment into recovery.
Finding the Right Environment for You
We know that the environment around you is essential in helping you find that place of peace and tranquility that lets you take things one step at a time. At First Steps Recovery, our Clovis, California facility is nestled in the idyllic foothills beneath Yosemite National Park. Here you will find the breathtaking beauty and awe of nature, all at your fingertips.
We want you to enjoy your stay at First Steps Recovery. That is why we want you to explore the park and the grounds. Go out and feel the serenity of nature in a comfortable environment. This is how you can reach true healing and overall well-being.
One Day of Peer Support Makes the Difference
Also, let’s not forget about peer support. One day you will need your fellows and comrades in recovery, and they may need you too. The alumni program at First Steps is a top-notch support system for you once you have completed the program. It is designed for you to share your experiences and find the guidance you need, every day and in every way.
We all want instant gratification. However, the best things in life are the things we have to wait for and earn. You may just be beginning your treatment journey or you may be in recovery. If you are just getting started, your journey will be worth it. Just ask your peers in recovery. It is important to learn to take a step back and relax, letting life be peaceful and serene in an always-on world. When you need help, your peers at First Steps Recovery will always be with you. When you need to talk to your care team, or if you are ready to seek treatment, call First Steps Recovery at (844) 489-0836 for more information.
