Recovery is a humbling journey. As you heal from Drug or Alcohol Addiction, you start to realize that you don’t have all the answers. This awareness is the first step to having a more open mind. Throughout your Recovery journey, you are bound to meet a variety of people from backgrounds far different than your own. As you walk this difficult yet rewarding road, you may be asked to learn from them and see the world in a new way.
The only way to glean all you can from any Recovery program is to have an open mind. You may find it tough when your existing ideas are challenged. However, if you can wrap your head around new perspectives and new ways of doing things, an open mind will make a huge difference in your ability to experience a successful Recovery and embrace a fresh start.
What Does “Open-Minded” Mean?
The definition of “open-minded” is being receptive to the ideas, arguments and information that others provide. This willingness to accept new opinions is generally considered a positive characteristic. It allows you to think rationally about things and see various factors contributing to a problem. Those who are open-minded are some of the best critical thinkers, as they can come up with creative and effective solutions.
Unfortunately, in our world of stark polarization, stepping outside our comfort zones to consider others’ perspectives is becoming increasingly difficult.
Tips for Being Open-Minded
Everyone is brought up with their own set of values and beliefs that help them navigate the world. We tend to surround ourselves with those who share our perspective, but to undergo a radical change like addiction Recovery, you must have an open mind and be willing to think in a new way. Being open-minded is an act of surrendering control, and it’s one of the first steps toward Recovery.
If you’re finding it difficult to stay open-minded, here are some tips that may help you out:
- Check your reaction: When you hear differing opinions, check your reaction. If you’re tempted to react in anger or another intense emotion, take a moment to remember that not everyone has the same opinion as you.
- Be open to learning: When you’re exposed to a new idea, look at these moments as learning opportunities and strive to put yourself in the other person’s shoes.
- Take frequent trips outside your comfort zone: Journeys outside your comfort zone are some of the first steps toward change. Visiting new places and trying new things are great ways to calm your anxieties about new situations.
- Embrace new friendships: New friends present the perfect way to grow as a person. When you open yourself to someone else’s experiences, you allow their story to teach you. This process is especially important in Recovery, as you can glean from others what they had to learn the hard way.
- Stay curious: Don’t be afraid to ask questions. While you don’t want to intrude in someone’s personal life, asking lots of questions will help you gain a better understanding.
- Openly listen to outside perspectives: Substance Addiction distorts the way you think. An outside perspective can recognize and challenge you when you’re falling back into addictive patterns. With the help of others, you’ll realize that it’s possible to live a full and meaningful life without drugs or alcohol.
Open Your Mind to Treatment That Works at 7 Summit Pathways
If you’re ready to open your mind to a rich and full life in Recovery, let 7 Summit Pathways help. Our Recovery programs will give you the skills and knowledge you need to find health and wholeness outside of a life of addiction. We understand that no one’s journey is exactly the same, which is why we personalize our treatments to fit individual needs and stories.
If you would like to learn more, contact us today to speak with a compassionate and knowledgeable member of our team.