A-Z of Addiction Recovery: P is for Progress

Progress

As opposed to being stuck or moving backwards, alcohol and drug addiction recovery gives one the opportunity to make progress. There is a slogan in 12 step groups that suggests "progress, not perfection." No one recovers perfectly. Often there are set backs and "therapeutic relapses" in the process, which are all learning experiences on the road to recovery. As long as one continues to be honest in treatment, keeps trying, and goes to group meetings, there is always hope for recovery, even if its baby steps all along the way, which is how most recovery is obtained. After time it looks like great progress was made, even though it may have occurred in tiny increments, one day at a time. Perfection is an illusion, but progress is always possible.