Step 4 Basics
This type of inventory is described as “searching and fearless.”
What is a moral inventory?
This feeling of anger or bitterness often points to unresolved issues from the past.
What is a resentment?
In Step 5, we admit this to ourselves, to God, and to another human being.
What is the exact nature of our wrongs?
This part of the inventory lists the things we’re afraid of and explores why.
What is a fear inventory?
Journaling and talking to a sponsor regularly are ways to stay committed to this value.
What is honesty?
The primary purpose of Step 4 is to identify these within ourselves.
What are our character defects and resentments?
These personal flaws or behavior patterns often cause harm to ourselves and others.
What are character defects?
In addition to ourselves and God, we share our inventory with this kind of person.
What is another human being?
In Step 4, we list these to uncover patterns and see how they affect our lives.
What are resentments?
This psychological defense keeps us from seeing the truth about our actions.
What is denial?
In Step 4, we look for these four things: resentments, fears, harms done to others, and this.
What is our part in them?
This is the opposite of denial and a key attitude in recovery.
What is acceptance?
This often happens when we confess our wrongs and let go of shame.
What is a feeling of relief or emotional freedom?
This emotion can lead to anger, dishonesty, or isolation when not addressed.
What is fear?
This grows when we are honest with others and allow them to see who we really are.
What is trust?
This quality is essential in Step 4 and helps us see ourselves clearly.
What is honesty?
This phrase describes acting from selfishness without regard for others.
What is self-will run riot?
Sharing honestly in Step 5 can free us from this heavy emotional burden.
What is guilt?
This common fear in recovery involves the belief that we aren’t good enough.
What is fear of rejection?
This simple practice helps us gain clarity and recognize patterns in our behavior.
What is writing things down?
Fear, procrastination, and fear of judgment are common barriers to completing this step.
What is Step 4?
This type of honesty is required to truly examine ourselves in recovery.
What is rigorous honesty?
This principle is essential in Step 5 to create a safe space for sharing.
What is confidentiality?
This act means acknowledging your fears and taking responsibility for your response.
What is facing your fears?
Step 5 helps with this process by allowing us to be fully seen and accepted.
What is self-acceptance?