Surviving the Festive Season: Sobriety Tips and Stories
Sometimes I go into my apartment, dude, and I come in, I bring problems from home for my shop, I bring him there, and sometimes I walk in role and I'm in a bad mood. I'm going to tell you: I am dude, I, and I'm like my sponsor.
The festive season is often filled with joy, laughter, and, for many, a lot of alcohol. But what if you're trying to stay sober? In this episode of 'From the Big House to the Penthouse', hosts Ricky Cruz and Raul dive into the challenges of maintaining sobriety during the holidays. They share practical tips and personal stories to help you navigate this tricky time of year. The holidays can be a minefield of triggers.
From family gatherings where alcohol flows freely to the memories of past celebrations that might make you nostalgic for your drinking days, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Ricky and Raul suggest having an exit plan ready. Whether it's leaving a party early, bringing along a sober friend, or having a pre-prepared excuse to turn down a drink, these strategies can help you stay on track. Community support is another crucial element discussed.
Attending support group meetings, staying in touch with your sponsor, and helping others in recovery can provide a sense of belonging and purpose. Ricky and Raul emphasize that helping others can also lift your spirits, making the season feel more fulfilling. Forgiveness is a powerful tool for emotional well-being during the holidays. Reconnecting with family and friends can bring up old grudges and resentments.
The hosts encourage practicing forgiveness—not just towards others but also towards yourself—to move forward in your recovery journey. Gratitude also plays a significant role in maintaining sobriety. By focusing on what’s going well in your life, you can shift your attention away from negative emotions and triggers. Ricky and Raul share their own experiences with gratitude, explaining how it has helped them through tough times.
Throughout the episode, you'll hear Ricky and Raul's personal stories about their own holiday struggles and victories. Their honest discussions offer a sense of hope and remind you that you’re not alone in your journey. So, if you're looking for some heartfelt advice and real-life stories to get you through the holidays sober, this episode is a must-listen.