Tools of Recovery
Service
When trying to break a habit, it is helpful to substitute a different behavior. As newly sober sex addicts, we sometimes did not know what to do with ourselves. We were on unfamiliar ground and walking into a meeting where we did not know anyone could be uncomfortable. …
Getting Some Exercise
While physical exercise is clearly an outer-circle activity, we feel it deserves special attention because so many have found it to be a valuable support for maintaining sobriety. When we enter SAA and begin to refrain from our addictive behaviors, we eliminate our familiar way of dealing with and releasing energy….
Outer Circle Activities
Ultimately, the purpose of SAA is to have a good life. This is what the Outer Circle is all about. Its scope is vast and touches every aspect of our lives. Here, we focus on one aspect of the Outer Circle — developing healthy activities….
Being Positive
Much attention in early sobriety goes to admitting all our shameful behaviors and all the compulsions from which we have committed to abstain. We become so focused on what is difficult that we may overlook the successes we have each day. …
Handling Travel
When travel requires us to leave the familiar comforts of home, friends, and meetings, even briefly, it is helpful to create a recovery plan. We can often anticipate particular challenges we may face. Prepare for your trip ahead of time with your sobriety in mind. …
Three Things a Day
Making a commitment to use the tools of SAA to stay sober can ground each day in the principles of the program. Attending meetings, staying in touch with our sponsor, prayer, meditation, program literature, and phone calls to SAA members are among the most widely used and are often considered the fundamental tools of SAA. …
Outside Resources
At various times, all of us have made use of professionals outside of SAA. We have seen therapists, doctors, dentists, lawyers, financial advisors, vocational counselors, and many others….
Feedback
Feedback from sober individuals is a vital part of our program. On our own, it is difficult to get perspective on how we conducted our sex lives. A fellow recovering addict provides us with a more objective view of where we have been and where we are. …
Asking Questions
Entering SAA may be a daunting experience. Out in the world in the midst of our addiction, we suffered alone; in recovery, we heal together. Having lots of questions is to be expected of a new member in SAA….
Live and Let Live
It is to be expected that from time to time, you will feel irritated with people both in and out of SAA. You may not agree with how they conduct their program or how they run a meeting. …