Step 1: We admitted we were powerless over alcohol—that our lives had become unmanageable.

TWELVE STEPS AND TWELVE TRADITIONS, p. 21

It is no coincidence that the very first Step mentions powerlessness: An admission of personal powerlessness over alcohol is a cornerstone of the foundation of recovery.

I’ve learned that I do not have the power and control I once thought I had. I am powerless over what people think about me. I am powerless over having just missed the bus. I am powerless over how other people work (or don’t work) the Steps. But I’ve also learned I am not powerless over some things. I am not powerless over my attitudes. I am not powerless over negativity. I am not powerless over assuming responsibility for my own recovery. I have the power to exert a positive influence on myself, my loved ones, and the world in which I live.

Alcoholics Anonymous Daily Reflections, January 3

Stretch of the week 1: watch for moments when you were able to control your attitude about something that happened to you and remain positive during an uncomfortable or painful situation.

Stretch of the week 2: Watch for moments when you could focus on accepting a particular situation exactly how it is, even when it is not how you want it to be.