Just for Today – December 2 – Recovery: Our First Priority

“We have to keep our recovery first and our priorities in order.”
– Basic Text, page 79

In active addiction, we often used external events or personal circumstances as excuses for our behavior. The same tendencies can follow us into recovery, tempting us to put other priorities ahead of the work required to stay clean. Yet recovery is the foundation upon which everything else in our lives depends. When we make it our first priority, we create the stability necessary to build and sustain meaningful relationships, careers, and personal growth.

Excuses in Active Addiction

Before coming to Narcotics Anonymous, many of us justified our use of drugs with excuses:

• Personal Conflicts: “They hurt my feelings.”
• Life’s Stressors: “I lost my job.”
• Emotional Pain: “They don’t understand me.”

These rationalizations blinded us to the truth—that our drug use was at the root of our problems. Only when we accepted responsibility for our addiction and sought recovery did we begin to see lasting change in our circumstances.

Excuses in Recovery

Even in recovery, excuses can creep in, tempting us to neglect the actions that keep us clean and connected:

• Family Obligations: “I can’t leave my kids tonight.”
• Work Demands: “I’m too busy with this project.”
• Exhaustion: “I’m too tired from my vacation.”

While these reasons may seem valid, they can become barriers to maintaining our recovery. If we allow them to take precedence over attending meetings, working the steps, or connecting with our sponsor, we risk undermining the foundation of our progress.

The Importance of Prioritizing Recovery

Recovery must come first—always. Without it, the very things we use as excuses may no longer be part of our lives. Relapse often leads to the loss of jobs, relationships, and other meaningful aspects of life. By keeping recovery at the forefront, we ensure that we can continue to enjoy and nurture these gifts.

Simple Actions to Keep Recovery First:

1. Attend Meetings: Make them a non-negotiable part of your schedule.
2. Work the Steps: Consistent step work provides guidance and clarity.
3. Call Your Sponsor: Regular communication keeps you accountable.
4. Be of Service: Helping others strengthens your commitment to recovery.

These actions not only maintain your recovery but also enrich your life, creating the stability needed to handle responsibilities and relationships.

Recovery as a Foundation

Recovery is the bedrock of a fulfilling life. It provides the tools to navigate challenges, the strength to rebuild relationships, and the resilience to pursue personal and professional goals.

When we prioritize recovery, we gain the ability to:

• Be Present: For our families, friends, and coworkers.
• Manage Stress: Without resorting to unhealthy coping mechanisms.
• Grow Spiritually: Deepening our connection with a Higher Power and others.

Everything we value in life becomes possible because of the stability recovery provides.

Keeping Priorities in Order

Life can be demanding, with many responsibilities competing for our attention. By regularly checking in with ourselves and reassessing our priorities, we can ensure that recovery remains at the top of the list.

Tips for Staying Focused:

• Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to obligations that threaten your recovery time.
• Schedule Recovery Activities: Treat meetings and step work as essential appointments.
• Reflect on Progress: Remember where you came from and the role recovery plays in your current life.

By keeping recovery first, we stay grounded and prepared to handle life’s complexities with clarity and strength.