Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) promises are an essential part of the 12-step program, offering hope and motivation for individuals in recovery. They were first introduced in the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous and have since become a cornerstone of the AA community. But what exactly are the AA promises, and how do they work? In this article, we’ll explore the origins of the AA promises, their significance in the recovery process, and how they can be applied to daily life. Let’s dive in and learn more about the power of the AA promises.
Understanding the AA Promises
The AA Promises are a set of statements that outline the benefits of living a sober life and following the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous. They can be found in the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous and are often recited in meetings to provide hope and motivation for individuals in recovery. Not to be confused with the AA slogans.
There are a total of 9 promises, each outlining a different aspect of the positive changes that can occur in an individual’s life once they have embraced sobriety and committed to the principles of the AA program. These promises cover various areas of life, including relationships, self-worth, and personal fulfillment.
Here is a breakdown of the first nine AA Promises to get started:
| Promise | Description |
|---|---|
| If we are painstaking about this phase of our development, we will be amazed before we are halfway through. | This promise speaks to the transformative power of the AA program and the positive changes that can occur as a result of following its principles. |
| We are going to know a new freedom and a new happiness. | This promise speaks to the sense of liberation and joy that comes with living a sober life and embracing the principles of the AA program. |
| We will not regret the past nor wish to shut the door on it. | This promise speaks to the process of acceptance and forgiveness that occurs through working the steps of the AA program. |
| We will comprehend the word serenity and we will know peace. | This promise speaks to the sense of calm and inner peace that can come with embracing sobriety and working towards personal growth. |
| No matter how far down the scale we have gone, we will see how our experience can benefit others. | This promise speaks to the power of personal experience and the potential for individuals to use their struggles to help others in the AA community and beyond. |
| That feeling of uselessness and self-pity will disappear. | This promise speaks to the sense of purpose and value that can come with embracing sobriety and contributing to the AA community. |
| We will lose interest in selfish things and gain interest in our fellows. | This promise speaks to the shift in perspective that can occur through working the AA program, allowing individuals to focus on the needs of others and contribute positively to their communities. |
| Self-seeking will slip away. | This promise speaks to the tendency for individuals in recovery to become less self-centered and more focused on the needs of others and the principles of the AA program. |
| Our whole attitude and outlook upon life will change. | This promise speaks to the transformative power of the AA program, allowing individuals to develop a new perspective on life and their place in the world. |
By embracing the AA Promises and committing to the principles of the AA program, individuals in recovery can experience profound personal growth and positive change in all areas of their lives.
The Importance of the AA Promises
The AA Promises play a crucial role in the recovery process. For individuals struggling with addiction, the promises provide hope and motivation for a better life in recovery. These promises were introduced in the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous and have become an integral part of the 12-step program.
By working through the steps and embracing the promises, individuals can gain a sense of empowerment and control over their lives. They offer a vision of what is possible and encourage individuals to make positive changes in their attitudes and behaviors.
The Impact of the AA Promises
The 12 step promises help individuals regain a sense of confidence and purpose in their lives. They promote emotional and spiritual growth and help individuals connect with others who are also committed to sobriety. By embracing the promises, individuals can experience a range of benefits, including improved mental and emotional health and greater overall well-being.
The promises serve as a reminder that recovery is possible and that positive change is achievable through hard work, commitment, and support. They provide a roadmap for achieving personal growth and transformation and offer hope for a brighter future.
The Origin of the AA Promises
The AA Promises were first introduced in the second edition of the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous in 1955. They were originally referred to as the “Nine Promises” and were intended to provide hope and inspiration to individuals in recovery. Over time, the promises were expanded to include additional statements and are now commonly referred to as the “Twelve Promises.”
The AA promises big book were a response to the need for positive affirmations and encouragement within the AA community. Many individuals in recovery struggle with feelings of hopelessness and despair, and the promises were created to provide a roadmap for a more positive future.
How the AA Promises Work
The AA Promises work by providing motivation and hope for individuals in recovery. By embracing the promises, individuals can begin to make positive changes in their lives and strive towards achieving and maintaining sobriety.
Each promise holds significant meaning and can be used as a tool for self-improvement and personal growth. Whether it be promising to “comprehend the word serenity” or “know peace”, the promises serve as a guide for individuals on their journey towards recovery.
The promises are not simply words on a page, but rather a call to action. By actively incorporating them into one’s daily life, individuals can begin to see the positive impact they have on their mental and emotional wellbeing.
The Twelve Steps and the 12 step promises
The AA Promises are an integral part of the 12-step program, providing hope and motivation for individuals in recovery. These promises are integrated throughout the different steps of the program, helping individuals progress towards a life free from addiction.
Step 2 of the program involves believing in a power greater than oneself and trusting in that power to restore mental health. The AA Promises support this step by providing hope and motivation for individuals in recovery as they work towards a greater sense of purpose and meaning in life.
Step 4 involves making a searching and fearless moral inventory of oneself. The AA Promises support this step by providing inspiration and guidance for individuals as they confront their past behaviors and work towards making amends for their actions.
Step 9 involves making direct amends to those harmed by one’s actions. The AA Promises support this step by providing encouragement and motivation for individuals to take responsibility for their actions and make positive changes in their lives.
The Promises and Step Work
The 12 step promises can be used as a tool for individuals to track their progress through the different steps of the program. By reflecting on the promises and how they relate to their experiences in recovery, individuals can gain insight into their personal growth and development.
Through the process of step work, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of the AA Promises and how they can be applied to daily life. By working through each step and applying the promises to different areas of their life, individuals can make significant progress towards a life free from addiction.
Applying the AA Promises to Your Life
Living out the 12 step promises on a daily basis can be a powerful tool for maintaining sobriety and finding personal growth. Here are some tips for applying the promises to your life:
- Believe in the Promises: Start by believing that the promises are possible for you to achieve. Have faith that they can become a reality in your life.
- Reflect on the Promises: Take time to reflect on the promises and what they mean to you personally. Consider how you can work towards achieving each one.
- Be Accountable: Hold yourself accountable for your actions and strive to make positive changes in your life. As you work towards achieving the promises, be honest with yourself and seek feedback from others.
- Practice Patience: Remember that achieving the promises may take time and effort. Be patient with yourself and don’t get discouraged if progress is slow.
- Seek Support: Surround yourself with a support system that encourages you to achieve the promises. Attend AA meetings, connect with sober friends, and seek guidance from a sponsor or therapist if needed.
By incorporating the big book promises into your daily life, you can continue to grow in your recovery journey and experience the benefits of sober living. For more about applying the AA principles in your life, check out our article titled: A Vision for You AA – Understanding Chaptery 11.
The Benefits of the AA Promises
The AA Promises provide hope and motivation for individuals in recovery. By embracing these promises, individuals can experience numerous benefits that positively impact their mental and emotional wellbeing.
Improved Mental Health
Embracing the 12 step promises can lead to improved mental health. By focusing on positivity and progress, individuals can cultivate a more optimistic outlook on life. The promises also encourage individuals to take responsibility for their actions and focus on self-improvement, which can lead to greater self-esteem and a more positive self-image.
In addition, the promises can help individuals better manage stress and anxiety. By focusing on the present moment and taking things one day at a time, individuals can reduce feelings of overwhelm and stay grounded in the present.
Enhanced Emotional Wellbeing
The AA Promises can also positively impact an individual’s emotional wellbeing. By embracing these promises, individuals can experience greater peace of mind and a sense of emotional stability. They can also develop a greater capacity for empathy and compassion towards others, which can strengthen personal relationships and increase feelings of social connectedness.
Furthermore, the promises encourage individuals to strive for personal growth and self-improvement. This can lead to greater feelings of purpose and fulfillment, which can improve overall emotional wellbeing.
Overall, the 12 step promises are a powerful tool for individuals in recovery. By embracing these promises, individuals can experience numerous benefits that positively impact their mental and emotional wellbeing. We highly recommend that you also read the AA Preamble from the Big Book.
Living by the AA Promises
Living by the big book promises is an essential part of the recovery process. It involves holding oneself accountable for their actions and taking responsibility for one’s own life. By living by the promises, individuals in recovery can create a sense of purpose and direction in their lives.
One of the key aspects of living by the aa promises in big book is practicing self-reflection. This involves taking a step back and evaluating one’s behaviors and attitudes. By being honest with oneself, individuals can identify areas where they need to make changes in order to stay on track with their recovery.
Another important aspect of living by the AA Promises is developing a sense of accountability. This involves acknowledging one’s mistakes and making amends when necessary. By taking ownership of one’s actions, individuals can build trust and respect with others, which can be crucial for maintaining relationships.
Living by the aa promises in big book also involves practicing mindfulness and staying present in the moment. This can be achieved through techniques such as meditation and deep breathing exercises. By focusing on the present moment, individuals can reduce stress and anxiety, which can help them stay on track with their recovery.
In order to live by the AA Promises, it’s important to have a support system in place. This can include attending meetings, connecting with a sponsor, and building relationships with others in recovery. By surrounding themselves with like-minded individuals, individuals can stay motivated and inspired to continue on their journey of recovery.
| Key takeaways: |
|---|
| Living by the AA Promises involves practicing self-reflection, accountability, and mindfulness. |
| Developing a support system is crucial for maintaining motivation and inspiration on the road to recovery. |
Common Misconceptions About the AA Promises
Like any other concept or idea, there are often misunderstandings about the AA Promises. Here, we will address some of the most common misconceptions to help clear up any confusion.
Myth: The AA Promises are a guarantee of sobriety.
It’s important to understand that the AA Promises are not a guarantee of sobriety. While they can provide hope and motivation for individuals in recovery, it ultimately comes down to the individual’s commitment to their sobriety and their willingness to work the 12-step program.
Myth: The AA Promises are religious in nature.
While the 12-step program of Alcoholics Anonymous does have a spiritual component, the big book promisesthemselves are not inherently religious. They can be interpreted in a way that aligns with an individual’s personal beliefs, whether they be religious or secular.
Myth: The AA Promises are a form of wishful thinking.
The AA Promises are not a form of wishful thinking, but rather a tool for personal growth and self-improvement. They are based on the experiences of those in recovery who have achieved positive changes in their lives through working the 12-step program and embracing the principles of AA.
Myth: The AA Promises are only relevant to those in early recovery.
The AA Promises are relevant to individuals in all stages of recovery, from early on in the 12-step program to those who have been in recovery for years. They provide a roadmap for personal growth and can serve as a reminder of the progress that can be made through working the 12 steps and embracing the principles of AA.
By addressing these common misconceptions, we hope to clarify the true meaning and relevance of the big book promisess to those in recovery. By embracing these promises and working the 12-step program, individuals can find hope, motivation, and a path towards self-improvement and lasting sobriety.
FAQs About the AA Promises
Q: Are the AA Promises guaranteed to come true for everyone in recovery?
A: The AA Promises are not a guarantee, but rather a possibility for those who work the steps and strive for sobriety. Each individual’s experience in recovery may differ.
Q: Can I still benefit from the AA Promises even if I don’t believe in a higher power?
A: Yes, the big book promises can still be a useful tool for personal growth and improvement, regardless of one’s beliefs.
Q: How long does it take for the AA Promises to come true?
A: There is no set timeline for when the AA Promises may come true. It is a process that requires time, effort, and commitment to one’s recovery.
Q: Can I achieve the AA Promises without attending AA meetings?
A: While attending AA meetings may be helpful for many individuals in recovery, it is not the only way to achieve the AA Promises. However, working the steps with a sponsor is a key component of achieving the promises.
Q: What happens if I don’t experience the AA Promises?
A: It is possible that an individual may not experience all of the promises, but this does not mean that they are not benefiting from the program. Each person’s journey in recovery is unique.
Q: Are the AA Promises only for those in recovery from alcohol addiction?
A: The aa promises in big book were originally intended for those in recovery from alcohol addiction, but they can be applicable to individuals in recovery from other addictions or struggles as well.
Q: Can I achieve the AA Promises on my own, or do I need to rely on others?
A: While having a support system, such as a sponsor or fellow AA members, can be helpful, ultimately it is up to the individual to work towards achieving the big book promises through their own actions and efforts.
Conclusion
The AA Promises can be a powerful source of hope and motivation for those in recovery. While they are not a guarantee, they provide a framework for individuals to work towards personal growth and improvement. By embracing the promises and working the steps, individuals can strive towards a more fulfilling and sober life.
Reaching out to Liberty Addiction Recovery is the first crucial step on your path towards recovery. Our team of dedicated professionals understands the challenges that come with addiction and are ready to provide the support you need. We offer comprehensive rehabilitation services designed to meet individual needs, providing a safe, supportive environment conducive to healing and recovery. Leveraging your Cigna Drug Rehab or Select Health Rehab coverage, we ensure you receive the best care with minimized out-of-pocket costs. Your journey to sobriety is a call away; let Liberty Addiction Recovery guide you towards a healthier, addiction-free life.
