Just for Today – December 16 – Where There’s Smoke

“Complacency is the enemy of members with substantial clean time. If we remain complacent for long, the recovery process ceases.”
– Basic Text, page 80

Complacency in recovery is subtle and dangerous. It often creeps in when things are going well, lulling us into a false sense of security. Over time, complacency can weaken our commitment to the program, leaving us vulnerable to relapse. Recognizing and addressing complacency early is essential to maintaining a strong recovery.

Recognizing the Signs of Complacency

Complacency can appear as a gradual decline in our commitment to the recovery process. It may start small but can grow into a significant threat.

Signs of Complacency:

1. Decreased Meeting Attendance: Skipping meetings becomes easier, and we convince ourselves we no longer need them as often.
2. Less Contact with Newcomers: We lose sight of the importance of helping others and the inspiration they bring.
3. Neglecting Our Sponsor: We avoid regular check-ins or stop seeking guidance altogether.
4. Ignoring Recovery Tools: We stop reading recovery literature or reflecting on the principles of the program.

These behaviors may seem minor at first, but they create distance between us and the foundation of our recovery.

The Danger of Complacency

Complacency is like smoke in a room—it’s a warning sign of a potentially larger problem. Left unchecked, it can lead to:

• Isolation: Disconnection from the fellowship and support system.
• Stagnation: Lack of growth in emotional and spiritual areas.
• Risk of Relapse: Increased vulnerability to old patterns of thinking and behavior.

Without proactive measures, the “smoke” of complacency can lead to a full-blown relapse.

Staying Committed to Recovery

Preventing complacency requires consistent effort and awareness. By staying engaged with the program and its tools, we can maintain our recovery and continue to grow.

Tools to Combat Complacency:

1. Attend Meetings Regularly: Make meetings a priority, even when life feels stable.
2. Help Newcomers: Sharing your experience reminds you of where you’ve been and keeps you grounded.
3. Maintain Sponsor Contact: Regular communication helps you stay accountable and focused.
4. Read Recovery Literature: Keep recovery principles fresh in your mind.
5. Work the Steps Continuously: Recovery is an ongoing process, not a destination.

Active participation in the program ensures that small signs of complacency don’t escalate into larger problems.

Rekindling the Commitment

Recovery requires the same commitment today as it did on our first day clean. By renewing our dedication to the principles and practices of Narcotics Anonymous, we protect ourselves from complacency and keep the flames of recovery burning bright.