Utilize the SMART method or another approach you prefer for implementing your personal Pathway to Recovery.
"We are our choices." - Jean-Paul Sartre
Planning is crucial in addiction recovery as it provides direction, minimizes impulsive decisions and offers a roadmap for overcoming challenges. With a plan, setbacks are easier to navigate, increasing the likelihood of sustained recovery.
Specific - It is important to be specific and clear about your recovery goal. Otherwise, you will not be able to concentrate your efforts and feel motivated to reach them. The five “W” questions should be answered when you are drafting your goal.
Measurable - You need to set measurable goals so you can keep track of your progress and remain motivated. You can track your progress and stay focused.
Achievable - To be successful, your goal must be achievable and realistic. It should be challenging but achievable. You may find previously untapped opportunities and resources that can help you get closer to your goal if you set a realistic goal.
Relevant - This is where you make sure your goal matters and aligns with other goals. While we all need help in reaching our goals, it is important that you retain control of them. You are responsible for your own goals, but your plans should drive others forward. These questions can be answered "yes" by a relevant goal.
Time-Bound - A target date is essential for every goal. This will give you a time frame to set your goals and a direction to follow. This is an important part of the SMART goal criteria. It helps you to avoid everyday tasks taking precedence over your long-term goals.
Write your answers in the text fields provided.
What would you like to do?
Why is this goal important?
Who is involved?
Where is it located?
What limits or resources are involved?
For example, imagine you are in addiction recovery and want to stay sober for a year. One goal might be, "I want to stay sober for one year to improve my health, rebuild relationships, and regain control of my life."
How much?
How many?
How do I know when it is done?
For example, one way to measure your goal of staying sober for a year is to track each day you remain sober and celebrate monthly milestones.
What can I do to achieve this goal?
What realistic steps can you take if there are constraints such as financial or time limitations?
For example, based on your current support system and resources, consider whether the goal of attending three support group meetings per week is feasible.
Do you have the time and energy to attend?
Are there free resources available to help you?
Don't set goals that you cannot control. You could say, "Never experience cravings again," but this is unrealistic. However, "Learn and practice coping strategies for cravings" is entirely up to you.
Is this worth it?
Is it the right time?
Is this in line with our other efforts/needs?
Am I the right person for this goal?
For example, you might want to stay sober and improve your overall health. Is it the right time to focus on sobriety, and are you confident in your support system? Does this goal align with your current needs, such as maintaining employment or strengthening family relationships?
When?
What can I do in six months?
What can I do in six weeks?
What can I do right now?
For example, if your goal is to stay sober for a year, consider what steps you can take immediately, such as removing substances from your home and contacting a support group. What can you do in six weeks, such as completing a recovery program? What milestones can you aim for in six months?
This is where you make sure your goal matters and aligns with other goals. While we all need help in reaching our goals, it is important that you retain control of them. You are responsible for your own goals, but your plans should drive others forward. These questions can be answered "yes" by a relevant goal:
Is this worth it?
Is it the right time?
Is this in line with our other efforts/needs?
Am I the right person for this goal?
For example, you might want to stay sober and improve your overall health. Is it the right time to focus on sobriety, and are you confident in your support system? Does this goal align with your current needs, such as maintaining employment or strengthening family relationships?
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