Lisa P - Reflection

Reflection is an important aspect of my recovery journey because it enables myself to analyse both past and present behaviours. Without reflection, there is a strong possibility that I may make the same mistakes that I did during my alcohol addiction, which could lead to falling into the same thinking and behavioural patterns which kept me in addiction 'for so long'.

If I am conscious and self-aware of both my thinking and behaviour, there is less chance of myself returning to the old cycle of addiction. Reflection helps me to grow and develop as an individual, which enables myself to continue moving forwards instead of backwards.

During daily life events, I apply a method which I have learnt, known as 'Playing the tape forwards'. This is a process in which I look at a situation which is presented to me and I critically think about my response/action to this situation.

For example, if I walked to my local shop for a chocolate bar and intentionally walked down the alcohol isle and stood there for a while, there is a strong possibility that I could walk out of that shop with a bottle of alcohol and drink it if I listen to my addictive brain and follow my old behavioural patterns.

However, if I play the tape forward, I will go into the shop, avoid the alcohol aisle and walk out with a chocolate bar with no intention of buying alcohol if I listen to my non-addictive brain and conscious thoughts.

Playing out these scenarios helps my conscious brain to override my addictive brain which prevents triggers for a potential relapse. This keeps me safe.

People, places and things often come into this method of playing the tape forward. For example: If I hang around with people that I use to drink with and go to the places where I use to buy alcohol from and keep the things (wine glasses) that I use to drink from there is a strong possibility that I could relapse.

It is therefore important for me to self-reflect on a daily basis to maintain self-awareness, safety and sobriety.