170 – Buddhist 12 Step Recovery | Step 1 100%?

In the meeting rooms of the 12 step recovery programs I've heard it said that step 1 is the only step you can do 100%. In today's show I question this and discuss my thoughts on it. I also talk about the powerlessness of mind altering substances. Then I finish with more of my suggestions for step 1 and how to do the work I found most effective.

Write it out, us pen and paper if you can.

Keep in mind no one will see it or read it, you can even destroy it when your done. With this thought in mind you can write out embarrassing or shameful things you don't want others to know. But write them out cause it will be of benefit for yourself.

Write it as a story or just in point form or a combination. Doing it is more important than how and spelling doesn't count for anything just so long as you know what it says.

It doesn't all need to be written out just so long as you write out enough that you can see the whole story from start to finish (today).

Connect with the thoughts and feelings at the time of the event you are writing about. Think back to what was going on inside you at the time. Don't lie to yourself.

This is a tool for you to assist in your meditation (thinking) about step 1 and the problem.

Keep to 1 subject only. Drinking and/or Drugs, Gambling, Sex, Food, etc.

Write about the first experience, the very first time, what were you thinking? What were you feeling? Next write about the progression; the frequency and it's increase, leading to harder substances or experiences, your non-moral behaviors. Then finally write about reaching bottom, the need to end this.