Beginning the recovery process is filled with uncertainty, confusion, and apprehensiveness. Finding a sponsor is the best way to dispel these feelings. A sponsor is an alcoholic who has made some progress in the recovery program and shares that experience on a continuous, individual basis with another alcoholic who is attempting to attain or maintain sobriety through A.A. Anything is easier with help. Being able to lean on one another, in addition to relapse prevention therapy, is a great way to hold each other accountable for actions and help each other during dark times. When choosing a sponsor there are some important things to consider.
Accessibility
A good sponsor must understand the importance of their role and be able to dedicate time and energy towards you. A sponsor is most crucial when times get tough; a sponsor is there to remind you of the commitment and bring you back to a better way of thinking. What good is a sponsor if they can’t be there for you when you need it most? Sometimes it might be a good idea to develop more than one sponsor just in case.
Knowledgeable
When looking for a reputable sponsor, it’s nice to be able to connect with them, but also take into account their own stability and positive recovery. One of the most important steps in the beginning stages of recovery is learning techniques and tools that have been proven to work. If your sponsor is 9 years sober themselves, that’s a pretty good sign they have been doing something right.
Honesty
Sometimes picking a sponsor solely on connection can be dangerous. Trusting someone who may or may not have the best intentions for your recovery can be a dangerous road. A sponsor doesn’t necessarily have to be your friend, just someone who you can trust to lead you down the right path, but more importantly strong enough to confront you when you have taken the wrong one.
Focused
A sponsor’s sole responsibility is to help you stay in recovery. They provide the message and help you live a sober life. They are not there to loan you money or give you marital advice, but to coach you through the steps of recovery. Developing a mutual relationship is one of the strongest tools used in A.A because having a support beam to fall back on when times are tough will be the saving grace from relapse. Finding that right sponsor can be just as important.
Addiction is a disease, but there is help. If you or anyone you know needs help, don’t hesitate to reach out - that’s why we’re here. Tampa Bay’s Coalition Recovery offers an incredible clinical program for drug and substance abuse and is innovating a new approach to aftercare through higher education increasing the chance of achieving long-term recovery. Don’t wait. A better tomorrow starts here. Because Tomorrow Matters.
