More 1st Step Work

"If in our daily life we can smile, if we can be peaceful and happy, not only we, but everyone will profit from it. If we really know how to live, what better way to start the day than with a smile? Our smile affirms our awareness and determination to live in peace and joy. The source of a true smile is an awakened mind." - Thich Nhat Hanh

Co-Dependents Anonymous Promise 1:
“I know a new sense of belonging. The feelings of emptiness and loneliness will disappear.”

Remember, there is no “right” way to work the Steps. Find your way. Give yourself permission to work the Steps imperfectly. Try not to judge yourself. Continue this process at your pace, in your way, a way that works for you.

Co-Dependents Anonymous Step 1:
“We admitted we were powerless over others – that our lives had become unmanageable.”

1. Make a list of 10 people you’ve tried to control. Put a brief example or two next to each one. For example, “Sam – I try to make him eat better and workout.”
2. Make a list of people who you let control you. Again, give an example or two next to each one. For example, “Carole – I go anywhere she wants to go even when I’m not interested in them.”
3. How is your life unmanageable?
4. Write the phrase, “I am powerless over others.” Read it aloud, slowly, ten times. How does that feel?
5. Using your list from above, substitute people you’ve tried to control in the following sentence:
   “I am powerless over ______.” Write out each one. (“I am powerless over ______….”) How do you feel? Angry? Sad? Something else?
6. List all the ways you try to control in your life.
7. Who do you want or “need” to “figure out”? Why? Will figuring someone out give you power? Will the power last? What is your experience?

Remember - YOU are precious! You are safe! And you are working hard on regaining your life, happiness, security, wholeness and serenity!