Are We Powerless Over Alcohol?

The Power of Perspective: Are We Really Powerless?

In traditional recovery programs, the concept of powerlessness is often emphasized. While it’s important to acknowledge addiction’s grip, seeing ourselves as powerless can limit our potential for growth and recovery. 

Breaking Free from the Chains of Powerlessness

Early in my sobriety journey, I embraced the idea of powerlessness because it was what I had been taught. It felt true—I had lost control over alcohol, and acknowledging that seemed like a step toward healing. But as time passed, the idea of being powerless felt like a trap. Was I destined to live in constant fear of relapse, obsessing over alcohol even when I wasn’t drinking?

It wasn’t until I started meeting people who thrived outside the narrative of powerlessness that I began to question this approach. One conversation with a long-time sober friend shifted my perspective entirely. He explained that the problem wasn’t alcohol’s power but my unwillingness to embrace an identity where drinking simply wasn’t an option anymore.

Focusing on What We Can Control

The concept of powerlessness can sometimes create a victim mentality, making us feel like passive participants in our recovery. When we adopt this mindset, we risk the following:

• Feeling helpless: Believing addiction will always have the upper hand can stop us from taking action.
• Losing motivation: If we think we’re destined to fail, we might ask, “Why bother trying?”
• Stifling growth: Focusing solely on avoidance keeps us from discovering new skills and healthier habits.

To break free from this mindset, we must shift our focus. Instead of fixating on what we’re trying to avoid, we need to redirect our energy toward what we want to achieve. By focusing on the positive outcomes and goals we’re working toward, we create a mindset that fosters growth and progress rather than one driven by fear and avoidance.

Reclaiming Our Power in Sobriety

Here’s how we can rethink our approach to addiction and recovery:

• Recognize addiction’s power, but own your role in recovery. Addiction is strong, but we’re not helpless. We have the power to make choices that align with our goals.
• Build self-confidence. Small, consistent wins help reinforce the belief that we are capable of overcoming challenges.
• Adopt a growth mindset. Sobriety isn’t about perfection; it’s about continuous improvement. Every step forward, no matter how small, contributes to your progress.

Living Beyond Powerlessness

Reclaiming your power doesn’t mean pretending addiction isn’t a challenge; it means recognizing that you have the strength to overcome it. By shifting your focus from fear of relapse to building a fulfilling, sober life, you’ll discover freedom from the constant obsession with alcohol.

If this resonates with you, listen to the full podcast episode where I dive deeper into this topic. You’ll hear more personal stories, actionable tips, and insights to help you shift from a mindset of powerlessness to one of empowerment.