How 20 Easy Steps Saved My Alcoholic Life

Thirty Years of Drinking - And Then This...

I often say that it took 20 Steps for me to recover from alcoholism - I am still in the process.

I would not be here now if it weren’t for the 12-Step program, and spookily, it lead me to the dharma of Buddha Shakyamuni. One of my favourite texts is the Eight Steps to Happiness by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. Therefore. Post this serendipitous happenstance, these twenty steps put my life back into shape. No - they shaped my life altogether!

Today, and over the ensuing months, I am proposing to link in some meaningful way, the 12-Steps and the 8 Steps. This is a brief summary of the way Gyatso and Wilson rescued me from a seemingly hopeless state of mind and body. Here is a part of my alcoholic journey.

The Overview:

I asked the A-I Overlord (does anyone else want to call it Al?) to succinctly summarise the way that The Eight Steps to Happiness helps a recovering alcoholic. Over the coming months, I will percolate and extrapolate the meaning of attaining happiness and sobriety through this method.

We are all urged ‘in the rooms’ to turn our will and lives over to the care of a Higher Power. With these guidelines, I have been able to trudge the happy road of karma.

I hope it aids you in some way too.

The Eight Steps to Happy Recovery:

1. Shift focus from self to others: The core message emphasises the need to practice a shift from self-focus to focusing on others to create meaningful change. This is particularly important for alcoholics, who often struggle with extreme self-centredness.
2. Cultivate compassion: By wishing others to be happy, we can create a virtuous circle and positive karma. This mindset can help alcoholics develop a more positive outlook and reduce self-destructive behaviours.
3. Practice mindfulness: Incorporating mindfulness techniques can help in relapse prevention and maintaining sobriety. This aligns with the Buddhist principle of right mindfulness from the Noble Eightfold Path.
4. Understand the root cause of suffering: The Four Noble Truths teach that suffering exists, and its cause is selfish and ignorant desire. This understanding can help alcoholics recognise the underlying motivation of their behaviour.
5. Follow a structured path: The Noble Eightfold Path provides a framework for developing wisdom, improving conduct, and cultivating mental discipline. These steps can be applied to the recovery process, helping alcoholics make necessary lifestyle adjustments.
6. Renew daily commitments: Practising daily meditation, "cleaning house," and helping others can support recovery. This aligns with both Buddhist principles and traditional 12-step programs.
7. Embrace non-attachment: Buddhist teachings on non-attachment can help alcoholics deal with cravings and reduce their dependence on alcohol.
8. Develop a support system: Creating a community of support is crucial in recovery. This aligns with the Buddhist concept of Sangha (community) and can be achieved through Dharma groups or 12-step programs.

My Hope

By incorporating these steps, a person recovering from alcoholism can work towards not only maintaining sobriety, but also finding greater happiness and fulfilment in life.

love alwaz
mike