‘Progress not perfection’ is an often-used phrase in recovery circles. Its origin is the 12 Step program of AA (Alcoholics Anonymous), and the phrase can be found in AA’s key piece of literature, the book Alcoholics Anonymous or what is commonly known as ‘The Big Book’.

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The concept is found within the following passages that speak of the guiding spiritual principles of 12 Step recovery:

• In a discussion of making spiritual progress in recovery to stay sober, the importance of developing self-restraint and the ability to honestly appraise ourselves and our dealings with others is emphasized. However, we are cautioned to not seek perfection in our endeavors and to forgive ourselves and others for our very human conditions: We need not be discouraged when we fall into the error of our old ways, for these disciplines are not easy. We shall look for progress, not perfection. (Alcoholics Anonymous, p. 91).

• The concept of progress not perfection is also addressed in a discussion of the 12 Steps themselves, the foundational guiding and spiritual principles of AA’s recovery program. It is said on page 60 of Alcoholics Anonymous: We are not saints. The point is, that we are willing to grow along spiritual lines. The principles we have set down are guides to progress. We claim spiritual progress rather than spiritual perfection.

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Perfectionism is Fertile Ground for Addiction or Relapse

Perfectionism is fertile ground for addiction and for many other maladies, stressors and conflicts. If we are perfectionist, we are not only unreasonably hard on ourselves, but also upon others. We leave no room for mistakes or room to learn and grow. We have unrealistic expectations of ourselves and others that can never be met. Consequently, we find ourselves repeatedly at odds with everyone, including ourselves.

We go from one disappointment to the next, never fully accepting who we are or who others are either. And, perfectionism never allows us to relax, enjoy, feel at peace or serene. These conditions are slippery ground for those wishing to become sober and maintain a good sobriety. Expecting perfection in one’s self is a set up for constant self-criticism and even self-loathing. It also prevents openness because one is afraid to try new things. Expecting perfection in others results in constant criticism of others and an inability to have healthy relationships. For those prone to use substances, such conditions can give rise to more and more use. For those in recovery, these dynamics pose a high risk for relapse.

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Progress Not Perfection Will Help You Get Sober and Stay Sober

If you need help to overcome addiction, chances are you have dealt with your own perfectionism for quite a while, and have suffered personally, but also within your dealings with others. Shifting your focus to progress not perfection can help immensely at any stage of your recovery. It helps cuts through anxiety and fear, takes your focus off the end result you want and keeps you in the moment where you have choice and control. It is through a consistent daily effort to make better choices that you will overcome your addiction. It is true in combating addictive disorders and any other chronic condition.

Developing the right mindset and the seemingly ‘small’ patterns in daily life that sustain a healthy life, can help get you sober and keep you sober. Having the support of well trained addiction specialists that help you establish a good plan for recovery is invaluable. In treatment you can learn how to overcome your addiction and how to maintain the gains you make in treatment when you leave rehab. If you or a loved one needs help, reach out today. Effective help is available.

Want more information about how Chapters Capistrano can help? Feel free to call 949-276-2886 and one of our addiction specialists will help get the information and help you need.