Recovery Coaching Perspective

I am unable to account for how others perceive, pursue, or define 'recovery'. I am open-minded to another's perceptions and definitions as I have learned that each person's take is unique when it comes to their personal understanding, experience, values, culture, belief system, familial influence, etc... In this respect, I will share where I am.

Long story short, many years ago I struggled with crack addiction and the life issues that arise therein. I am 45 now and have been walking in deliverance for 14 years.

I am fully aware and realize that not all will understand or agree with my position and that is ok. For me, I believe that the pursuit of health, growth, and longevity are lifelong processes. This encompasses my whole person, not just one area of my life. The only reason I continue to walk in deliverance is because of the Grace of God. It is Jesus Christ and my faith in Him that gives me the strength to be the best me today.

I am intentional in my pursuit of learning, growing, being teachable in all areas, even when it is difficult. I struggle as we all do. I have also learned that active substance use and dependence begin long before the substance is ingested for an individual in recovery. Thus, I have learned to self-examine so as not to allow old habits, mindsets, or behaviors to resurface or take root. I also have people I trust to be honest with me when I am not seeing things myself. It is not easy to look candidly at oneself or to have others check you intentionally. However, I continue to learn that my feelings will heal, and I will be better for having listened to correction when needed and deserved.

I do not like making excuses for myself. I also deliberately raise my children with the same mentality hoping they, too, will lean into necessary correction and increase in self-awareness. In my home there is a difference between understanding why and making an excuse. Understanding why allows you and the other person to have a better view of the issue. This provides self-awareness with intent to heal, fix, and/or alter for more positive and intentional outcomes. An excuse is a way of rationalizing wrong attitudes, behaviors, choices, lies, etc... with the intent of getting out of trouble, deflecting, or for someone to validate the excuses.

Regardless, I believe the journey and pursuit of health and wellness are lifelong, and to be done with intent. Each person's pursuit and journey should be unique as there are no two people alike. If labels, tools, techniques, and mindsets that do not flow with my journey, work for another person and improves their health and functioning, then I will be happy to aid them. I am eclectic in my approach for this very reason. As long as we remain God-honoring and promote overall health and wellness, then it is worth taking the time to learn and utilize whatever methods and tools we can.

Be blessed and pursue holistic health in Christ Jesus.