Step 1 of NA
Honesty, Straightforwardness, Sincerity
We admitted we were powerless over alcohol, that our lives had become unmanageable.
We admitted we were powerless over alcohol, that our lives had become unmanageable.
Welcome to the 1st step of NA in the 12 step program. NPB Recovery Center interprets the first step as a stage of acceptance over our addiction. Common terms that are associated with this step are "powerless" and "unmanageable". This step stems from the belief that addiction is a chronic disease that, for many, requires external help. Addiction is not viewed in the twelve steps as a behavior controlled by willpower, but one controlled by a core medical problem that needs to be resolved. Once this is understood, a member can proceed with the recovery that they are seeking. Acceptance of our addictions can be liberating and it is always the first step in the sober life we seek.
Understanding what powerlessness over addiction means is a key attribute of NA's 1st step. This is not to say we have no power to stop using, but while we use we are powerless. Embracing the fact we are powerless while in active addiction is the reason we know a change is needed. Some practical ways of embracing these truths are by journaling personal struggles of powerlessness while high on substances. When you feel comfortable to do so you can share these experiences in NA meetings. There are many members of NA who see this to be beneficial.
Mark was a successful sales executive, but his addiction to alcohol started to interfere with his work. He missed critical deadlines and treated his team poorly. After showing up drunk, he lost a major client. This event put Mark in a spiral that led to more drinking. Two weeks after loosing the client Mark got a DUI. After the DUI Mark had lost his job completely. Mark then realized he had to confront how unmanageable his life had become.
Sarah always believed she could stop using drugs whenever she wanted. However, during a family dinner, her teenage daughter confronted her, saying, “Mom, you’re never really here anymore.” The pain in her daughter’s voice shattered Sarah’s denial, and she admitted for the first time that her addiction had taken over her life.
James, a compulsive gambler, often justified his behavior by claiming he’d win big one day. After maxing out three credit cards and losing his savings, he finally realized the extent of his problem when his landlord served him an eviction notice. James acknowledged his addiction was out of control and sought help.
Think of a time that you have significantly neglected or damaged relationships with your loved ones due to the addiction or addictive behaviors (or sometimes because you were recovering from your addictive behaviors.)Many addicts also have extended periods where they isolated themselves from loved ones to hide the addiction and spend time with others who are using. Have you isolated yourself to an extreme degree and why?
Think of any lapses in judgement or memory where you cannot account for where you were or why you did things. This includes erratic behavior, gaps in memory, or times that you cannot recall how you got home. Have you made attempts in the past to control your addictive behaviors? How successful have they been?
Some other points to think about is if your addictive behavior contributed to excess spending, indulgence, or irrational behavior. Think of any irrational events that have happened since you began your addictive behavior. Did you rationalize this behavior? If so, in what way?
What does Step 1 of NA mean?
"We admitted we were powerless over our addiction—that our lives had become unmanageable." In a nutshell, it's about recognizing that addiction is in control when you are using - not you.
Why is admitting powerlessness important?
Powerlessness is crucial because it provides acceptance of the situation, which are essential for recovery. If you believe you are in control you are much more likely to use. That is why step 1 lays foundations for the next steps. We have to be living in reality.
How can I apply Step 1 in daily life?
Some daily activities and practices we encourage are self reflection, journaling, attending NA meetings, seeking support, and having daily affirmations.
What if I struggle to accept Step 1?
Start small and be patient. Acceptance is a process and not an action. Be sure to give yourself grace. If step 1 takes a bit longer than expected, or you find yourself peeking back years later, that is OKAY. Be sure to talk about it at your next NA meeting or with your sponsor. You are not alone.
Is Step 1 only about addiction?
A majority of people in NA will have faced addiction challenges, but other programs use the 12 steps other than NA. There are 12 step programs for relationships, process addictions, and general personal growth.
Learn about sobriety, recovery, and a healthy lifestyle with North Palm Beach Recovery Center.
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