Episode 186: 11 Years Sober

In this episode of The Worth Recovery Podcast, I'm celebrating 11 years of sobriety since December 2, 2012. Reflecting on this milestone, I explore how crucial self-worth is in the recovery process. This episode, recorded six months ago, delves into my thoughts and experiences during my 11th year of sobriety, offering insights I've gained along the way.

Over the years, I’ve worked with many clients, witnessing how love and relationship addictions manifest uniquely for each person. Despite the differences, the core symptoms are often strikingly similar. I plan to dive deeper into these observations in future episodes, so stay tuned!

One key takeaway from my journey is that you cannot shame yourself into meaningful change; you can only love yourself into it. In 2011, I chose bottom and decided it was time to seek help. Finding a therapist and joining a 12-step group were pivotal steps for me. These experiences taught me three invaluable lessons: I was not alone, people understood and believed me, and shame was more of a hindrance than a help.

A significant turning point was when I realized that shame was blocking me from accepting positive feedback and love. My therapist’s analogy of having a bucket in my heart without a bottom really hit home. It made me see that self-worth and self-love were essential for holding onto the good in my life.

I began focusing on building my self-worth, understanding that I was worthy of recovery, love, and happiness. This shift allowed me to show up differently in my life, embracing my value and the positive changes that came my way.

One book that played a significant role in my journey was Brené Brown’s "I Thought It Was Just Me (But It Isn’t)." Brown’s message that everyone is worthy of love and belonging right now, without any prerequisites, profoundly impacted my recovery.

Today, I want to encourage you to recognize your inherent worth. Understand that you are not alone in your struggles. Recovery is possible, and embracing your self-worth is a vital step in that journey. Remember, you are Worth Recovery.

Thanks for tuning in, and I look forward to sharing more with you in the next episode. Until then, take care and keep believing in your worth!

Amy