Addiction

Hello Bhuvanesh!

Welcome.

I've been addicted to booze, cannabis, porn, sex, spending, tv, junk food, you name it. I've also lost everything in my life. Career, home, money, friends, love. I feel you and you are not alone. I'm finally at a point where I want to make serious change. Honestly, if I hadn't become a father 3 1/2 years ago, I don't know if I'd be here. I must get my life together for my son.

For me it feels like addiction is misdirected power and creativity. And it is tidal wave in force and strength. It is a master lesson for humans. Harnessed, we become warriors of great power.

Personally, I'm finding the greatest root to recovery for me is coming out of isolation and shame. Talking about it, finding community. Being honest and authentic. Learning to forgive and love myself. It's amazing how the universe conspires to aid us when we're not afraid to confess we're struggling. I've joined two anonymous groups. I'm doing a retreat for incest survivors this weekend. I joined this forum (only a week ago, but I love it already - power in numbers!) I read books, try to meditate, exercise a lot. Now it's about taking action on my long held dreams. Finally changing my eating habits (whole natural foods). Finally working on all of those creative endeavors I had no time for. Writing, music.

Most important, have patience with yourself. This issue has had over a decade to take you down. It will take time to rebuild. I've been on the road of addiction for 35 years. I'm not going to be able to flip a switch and everything will be great. It will take time to rebuild my self-esteem, confidence and courage. I will have a career I'm passionate about, great friends, love, security. I will. But, I am patient. With each day, I build strength in my foundation.

I love this quote by Tony Robbins, "Most people overestimate what they can accomplish in a year, and underestimate what they can accomplish in a life."

Take the long view. Everything you've ever dreamed of truly is born right now. With each passing moment. With each decision and action you take. Through this process we will unveil our true character. Beings of forgiveness, love, compassion and great strength.

But remember, it is freaking hard! Your nervous system and neural networks are beasts to contend with. We're battling the strongest of biological forces.

You are beautiful, you are powerful, you are here. Welcome