Twelve step programs have helped millions of adults who felt like their life was spinning out of control. Even if you’re not addicted to alcohol or gambling, their philosophy may help you when external events make your situation seem unmanageable. Maybe your life has been disrupted by health issues or job loss. Maybe your relationships are strained, or you’re isolated from others. Your wellbeing depends on how you respond to challenging situations. Take a closer look at twelve step programs and the lessons they contain. You’ll find wisdom that you can apply to any kind of hardship.

Face Reality:

1. Know yourself. Personal development starts with taking an honest look at yourself. Evaluate your strengths and the areas where you need to grow. Appreciate your potential and define what an authentic life means for you.
2. Acknowledge obstacles. You might think that denial can protect you from difficult truths. However, what it really does is hold you back from making positive changes.
3. Take action. You have to take practical steps if you want to fulfill your goals. Figure out your motivation and put your ideas into motion.

Connect with Others:

1. Ask for help. Let your family and friends know how they can support you. Recognizing your limits is a sign of strength rather than weakness. You can accomplish more when you’re willing to collaborate with others.
2. Give generously. Deepen your relationships and build your self-esteem by sharing your time, talents, and other resources. As a bonus, your own troubles will probably seem less overwhelming.
3. Take risks. If you want to experience being known and understood, it’s important to allow yourself to be vulnerable. Talk about your thoughts and feelings. Give others the opportunity to do the same.

Live One Day at a Time:

1. Be mindful. Focus on the present moment. Give your full attention to one task at a time. Savor the ordinary moments in life like playing with your children and listening to the rain fall.
2. Care for yourself. Adopt daily habits that nourish your physical and mental health. Eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly. Aim for at least 7 hours of high-quality sleep each night.
3. Start small. Break big undertakings down into simpler steps. Set intermediate goals. Each victory will inspire you to keep trying.
4. Accept uncertainty. It’s natural to feel uncomfortable when you’re in unfamiliar territory. At the same time, change is inevitable. Focus your efforts on the areas where you can have the most impact.Think about what you have to gain.

Practice Spirituality:

1. Clarify your values. Religion or spirituality plays a major role in twelve step programs. Examine your core beliefs. Ask yourself if they’re limiting you or encouraging you to grow. Regardless of your age, you can set a new course.
2. Find meaning. Challenging times can be a great opportunity to discover your life purpose and sort out your priorities. Think about the legacy you want to create and what inspires you to keep going. Remember that your purpose may evolve over time.
3. Meditate and pray. Your spiritual muscles need conditioning the same as your physical ones. Train them with daily rituals. Read inspirational texts. Experiment with meditation and prayer techniques that align with your personal faith.
4. Join a community. Many believers find that gathering together amplifies their power and generates support. Visit local faith communities that interest you or attend services online.

Even when you’re surrounded by chaos, you can take responsibility for yourself and move forward. Be open to learning from twelve step programs and other resources that can teach you to be stronger and more compassionate.

Sherry Gaba, LCSW, is the author of Infinite Recovery: 6 Steps of Mindfulness, Positive Thinking, and the Law of Attraction to Break Free from Addiction https://www.amazon.com/Infinite-Recovery-Mindfulness-Attraction-Addiction-ebook/dp/B07T4GLDFX.  For a limited time join her Wake Up Recovery Community, an online group coaching program  for a $1 for anyone struggling with addiction and/or codependency.  https://wakeuprecovery.com/become-a-member-co1/