Doug Fleener - Misconceptions Around Recovery - From Being Human #284

Doug Fleener reflects on the misconceptions around alcoholism and how finding AA fueled his recovery and ultimate success.

I also spent many years in 12-step recovery. Here's is my pick for the top five elements we can apply from that philosophy to life and business:

➡ Admit Your Weaknesses—Conduct a 'fearless moral inventory,' as the 12-step world refers to it. Recognise and acknowledge the areas where you or your business may be lacking.

➡ Seek Guidance and Mentorship—One of the most valuable aspects of 12-step groups is that within a few weeks of joining the programme, I was encouraged to find a 'Sponsor'. Ever since, I have sought out coaches and mentors in all areas of my life.

➡ Make Amends—Recovery groups emphasise repairing damaged relationships and maintaining healthy, honest interactions. Don't let bad blood and regret fester. Perhaps the most challenging aspect, but absolutely worth it. Get straight and make it up to those you've harmed.

➡ Continuous Self-Improvement—The 'one day at a time' approach encourages us to start each day intending to get a little better at something. This ethos can serve us personally and professionally. A powerful adjunct to this is that no matter how badly it's going, we can choose to start our day whenever we like.

➡ Service and Giving Back—within weeks of joining a 12-step group, I was encouraged to take on a service position. Life can only improve when you engage in voluntary service somewhere in your life.