By Torna Li, Psy.D. | Regional Clinical Director
As a psychologist by trade, I have seen firsthand the courage it takes to pursue recovery. While the new year is a fresh opportunity to commit to the small, meaningful steps that drive lasting change, it’s important to reflect on the many successes that got us here in the first place.
Sometimes our “small wins” may not feel like much. Maybe we woke up on time, received a compliment from someone, reached out to a friend to talk, or maybe we took a walk after a meal. Oftentimes, our “small wins” drive us through the day and onward to healthy recovery habits.
How to remember small wins:
- Pick a time in the day to reflect on what felt good (or even normal) and how you contributed to those positive feelings/experiences.
- Journal to track your progress – write down your small wins daily, weekly, monthly to reinforce positive (or neutral) experiences.
- Small victories can be one week of sobriety, avoiding triggers or unhealthy interactions for a couple of weeks, attending a certain number of meetings, or maintaining positive relationships for a month.
How to create new small wins
Now that you have reflected on the successes YOU contributed to your recovery, let’s look at ways to continue committing to the small, meaningful steps that drive lasting change. Remember it’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon – and even marathons are completed one step at a time.
- Small goals matter! In my experience, these small, achievable goals go a long way:
- Set 1-2 realistic short-term goals each day (something specific and measurable).
- Focus on the present moment and do what’s in front of you.
- Allow distractions and other goals to just simply be – realistically you can only do one thing at a time anyway.
- Recovery can feel overwhelming when you think long-term. Take it one moment or day at a time. Staying present reduces stress.
- Build a routine for better self-care
- Take action to preserve or improve your physical, psychological, emotional, and spiritual wellness.
- For example: try to limit screen time to 30 minutes before bed. Or, try to eat balanced meals throughout the day.
- Develop support and connection
- Recovery is a team effort. Join support groups, therapy, or recovery communities.
- Remember to keep celebrating small wins!
Recovery isn’t an individual journey – it’s a shared resolution and together we can help make it possible!
If you or a loved one is struggling this holiday season, we are always here if you need us. Call 888-991-7351.
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