Hola Sober Morning Reflection
by Susan Christina
Dear Sober Queens,
Comparison can be a perilous pitfall on the journey to sobriety. In a world where social media presents curated snapshots of seemingly perfect lives, it's easy to fall into the trap of comparing one's progress to others'. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, and even relapse. And in the words of Roosevelt, “comparison is the thief of joy.” One of the dangers of comparison is that it distorts reality. We often compare our inner struggles to others' outward appearances, forgetting that everyone's journey is unique. What we see on the surface may not reflect the challenges someone else is facing behind closed doors. This skewed perspective can breed unrealistic expectations and a sense of failure when we inevitably fall short. Moreover, comparison can undermine the sense of community and support that is crucial for recovery. Instead of celebrating each other's victories and offering compassion in times of struggle, comparison fosters competition and judgment. It erodes the bonds of solidarity that sustain us on the path to sobriety. To counteract the dangers of comparison, it's essential to cultivate self-awareness and self-compassion. Rather than measuring our worth against others' achievements, we must focus on our own progress and growth. This requires tuning into our inner voice, acknowledging our strengths and weaknesses, and embracing our imperfections with kindness. What also helps is building a supportive network of sober peers who understand and empathise with our experiences providing a vital buffer against comparison. By surrounding ourselves with people who uplift and inspire us, we can cultivate a sense of belonging and acceptance that bolsters our resilience.
Practicing gratitude is another powerful antidote to comparison. Instead of fixating on what we lack or what others have, we can shift our focus to what we are grateful for in our own lives. Gratitude cultivates a mindset of abundance and contentment, fostering inner peace and fulfilment. Ultimately, the journey to sobriety is a deeply personal one. Comparing ourselves to others only serves to hinder our progress and diminish our sense of self-worth. By embracing our individuality, fostering self- compassion, and nurturing supportive relationships, we can navigate the challenges of recovery with grace and resilience. Do yourself a favour today, if you find yourself comparing any part of your life without another human being - STOP and shift the focus to what you are grateful for today. Not today lady, not today. You’re a walking miracle, strut accordingly. Susan Christina
HOLA SOBER | MADRID
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