Balancing Boundaries: From Self-Centeredness to Harmony in Recovery
So much of this goes on inside my head. One of the skills that I had to learn was also how to stand up for myself in the people-pleasing world.
Ever feel like you're juggling too many balls, trying to keep everyone happy while also looking after yourself? In this episode of 'Spirit of Recovery', Revs. Lonnie Vanderslice and Dan Beckett dig into the tricky business of setting boundaries without building walls. They tackle the common struggle of self-centeredness that many face during recovery, sharing their personal stories and practical advice on how to find that sweet spot between self-care and caring for others.
Lonnie and Dan explain how, during active addiction, it’s easy to put your needs above everyone else’s, often to unhealthy extremes. But recovery is all about balance—learning to see yourself as equal to others, not better or worse. The hosts discuss how boundaries can help create a life of harmony, allowing you to meet your needs without stepping on others' toes.
They dive into the emotional roots of self-centeredness, showing that it's not about being morally flawed but about defending deep-seated insecurities. For Lonnie, it was the fear of not understanding something that fueled his self-centeredness. For Dan, it was the urge to teach and help others, stemming from a fear of not being useful. Through candid reflections, they reveal how they learned to set healthy boundaries and why it’s crucial for recovery.
The episode highlights the power of saying no and standing up for yourself in a world that often pressures you to please others. It also touches on the concept of denial—not in ignoring problems but in refusing to let old, harmful behaviors control your life. This episode is packed with practical tips for anyone in recovery, their families, or those simply curious about the journey.
It's a heartfelt guide to balancing personal needs with those of others, paving the way for a more harmonious life.