Just For Today – May 25 – “Good” and “Bad” Feelings

Rethinking Daily Judgments

It’s a common human tendency to categorize experiences and feelings as either good or bad. This dualistic way of thinking often stems from deep-seated habits and perceptions that dictate our emotional responses to daily events. The Information Pamphlet Number 8, “Just for Today,” urges us to step back and reevaluate this instinctive judgment, suggesting that every occurrence, be it perceived as positive or negative, holds the potential for personal growth.

The Misleading Nature of “Good” and “Bad”

In recovery, the distinction between what we traditionally consider “good” or “bad” feelings can often be misleading. For instance, feelings of joy and satisfaction may arise from accomplishments we label as “good,” while emotions like frustration or guilt may follow events we deem “bad.” However, the true value of these experiences often lies not in the immediate emotional reactions but in what they teach us about resilience, adaptability, and courage.

Learning from Every Experience

1. Growth from Failure: Failures, especially those resulting from risks, can be profoundly instructive. They teach us about our limits, our resilience, and our real needs.
2. Appreciating Success: Similarly, successes teach us about our capabilities and strengths, reinforcing positive behaviors and strategies that work.
3. Neutral Approach: By removing the labels of “good” and “bad,” we allow ourselves to derive lessons from every outcome without the emotional weight of judgment.

The Role of the Tenth Step in Daily Reflection

The Tenth Step of the Narcotics Anonymous program involves taking a daily inventory of our actions and emotions, encouraging us to reflect on both successes and setbacks. This practice is crucial in learning how to detach from our automated judgments and to view each day’s events as opportunities for growth.

How the Tenth Step Helps:

• Self-awareness: It increases our awareness of how we react to various situations and helps us identify patterns that may need adjustment.
• Balanced Evaluation: It encourages a balanced reflection on the day’s events, promoting a healthier perspective that focuses on growth and understanding.
• Continuous Improvement: Regular reflection fosters a mindset geared towards continuous improvement, rather than dwelling on perceived failures.

Success Redefined

In the journey of recovery, success is redefined as the ability to learn from every life event. This perspective shifts the focus from achieving specific outcomes to developing a deeper understanding of oneself and one’s reactions to various circumstances. By applying the principles of recovery daily, individuals not only navigate their day more effectively but also ensure continual personal development.

Today, as we encounter various situations that may initially seem good or bad, we are reminded to seek out the lessons they offer. This approach not only enriches our recovery journey but also enhances our overall well-being by promoting a more nuanced understanding of life’s complexities.