The Balance Between Acceptance and Tolerance in Sobriety
Episode Overview
Understanding the difference between acceptance and tolerance in sobriety. The role of the 12 steps in sorting out internal chaos. Importance of patience and consistent effort in recovery. Learning when to accept reality and when to push for change. Support from sponsors and fellow addicts is crucial.
Applying the steps consistently reviewing what's working and what isn't for me, consistently talking to other alcoholics and addicts and patiently working through things with a sponsor have all paid off
Acceptance and tolerance - two concepts that often get tangled up, especially in the journey to sobriety. In this episode of 'Next Time I'll Try Knitting', JJ Chance takes you on a candid exploration of these themes. He reflects on his own experiences with addiction and recovery, offering a raw and honest account of how his perceptions of acceptance and tolerance were skewed by substance abuse.
You'll hear about his struggle to find balance, dealing with everything from tolerating bad behaviour just to keep drinking, to falling apart over minor issues because of alcohol. It's a journey many can relate to, whether you're in recovery or supporting someone who is. JJ talks about the transformative power of the 12 steps, particularly steps 10, 11, and 12, in helping him sort out his internal chaos.
He highlights the importance of patience and consistent effort, stressing that change doesn't happen overnight. The episode is filled with moments of light humour, making the heavy subject matter more approachable. A key takeaway is the distinction between acceptance and tolerance. JJ shares how he learned to differentiate between what he could accept and what he should tolerate, a process that required time, patience, and a lot of serenity prayers.
He emphasises that it's okay to want to change things that are not acceptable, as long as you have a credible plan. This episode is not just for those in recovery but also for anyone struggling with life's challenges. JJ's story is a reminder that while acceptance is crucial, it's equally important to recognise when change is necessary. So, if you're looking for an honest, relatable take on sobriety and personal growth, this episode is a must-listen.