Step Work & Amends
What is the purpose of Step 8 in recovery?
To make a list of all persons we have harmed and become willing to make amends to them.
What is self-awareness in recovery?
The ability to recognize your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in the moment.
Why is trust often difficult for people in recovery?
Because of past betrayals, shame, and broken self-trust.
What’s a healthy way to respond to overwhelming emotions?
Pause, name the emotion, and use a recovery tool.
Why are routines important in recovery?
They provide structure, reduce idle time, and support emotional stability.
What makes a true amends different from an apology?
A true amends involves both accountability and changed behavior.
Name one benefit of building self-awareness.
Improved decision making and emotional regulation.
Name the most important trait of a trustworthy person.
Consistency.
What is emotional avoidance?
Suppressing or numbing feelings instead of facing them.
What’s a basic recovery action to include in your daily routine?
Prayer, step work, meeting attendance, or phone calls.
Why should Steps 8 and 9 not be rushed?
Because they require emotional readiness, willingness, and guidance to avoid causing more harm.
What tool helps build self-awareness daily?
Step 10 or regular journaling.
What does it mean to trust the recovery process?
Believing it will work even when it’s uncomfortable or slow. Take your time. Be patient.
Why can boredom be dangerous in recovery?
It’s a common trigger for relapse.
What does HALT stand for?
Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired.
What role does a sponsor play in Step 9?
They help you determine if and when to make an amends and how to approach it safely.
What emotion is commonly avoided and often signals a need for reflection?
Shame.
How do you rebuild trust in yourself?
By keeping small promises to yourself consistently. Set small reachable goals and accomplish them.
Name one grounding tool you can use when emotions feel too big.
Breathing, 5-4-3-2-1 sensory method, or calling a peer/sponsor.
What is the risk of unstructured time?
It can lead to boredom, impulsivity, and relapse.
What does "living amends" mean?
Changing behavior over time instead of just offering words of apology.
How can mindfulness improve self-awareness?
By helping you observe thoughts and feelings without judgment.
What’s a common fear about trusting others?
Fear of being judged or hurt again.
What’s the benefit of emotional honesty?
It builds connection, trust, and personal growth.
How can routines improve mental health?
By promoting sleep, regular meals, and consistent self-care.