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The author of the classic 12 Stupid Things That Mess Up Recovery offers a fresh list of smart things to do to attain and sustain emotional sobriety. Whether it's called dry drunk or white knuckle sobriety, it's that stage in recovery when we realize that putting the plug in the jug isn't enough. The next step is taking responsibility for the emotional immaturity that fuels our addictive personality and has a tremendous impact on ourselves and others. Allen Berger, PhD, draws on the teachings of Bill W. and psychotherapy pioneers to offer twelve hallmarks of emotional sobriety that, when practiced, give people the confidence to be accountable for their behavior, ask for what they want and need, and grow and develop a deeper trust in the process of life. These smart things include: understanding who you are and what's important to you; learning not to take others' reactions personally; trusting your inner compass; and taking responsibility for your reactions to problematic situations. It is in these practices that we find release from what Bill W. described as an absolute dependency on people or circumstances, and develop the tools to find prestige, security, and belonging within.
About the author
Allen Berger, PhD, a popular public speaker and nationally recognized expert on the science of recovery, is the author of 12 Stupid Things That Mess Up Recovery, 12 Smart Things to Do When the Booze and Drugs Are Gone, and 12 Hidden Rewards of Making Amends. His pamphlet, How to Get the Most Out of Group Therapy, helps clients in treatment, continuing care, or Twelve Step groups understand what happens in group meetings and how these meetings help members acquire recovery skills. Dr. Berger lives in Los Angeles, California.
