Win the WAR Against a Craving

I) When the thought pops into your head don’t let it travel to far. Don’t let the thought snowball out of control. Don’t let yourself be unrealistic.

II) Meditate and pray. Walking meditation and prayer should continue in your head constantly, believing that you will receive help through this challenging time. You have to believe that your Higher Power has your best interest in mind; your Higher Power loves you, and wants’ you to succeed.

III) Search for gratitude, and look to be thankful for all that you have. When you are thankful for even the littlest of things you become a better decision maker. Being thankful will help you realize that happiness can be found in the simplest of things; and that through these simple things you can overcome the craving because you realize that you don’t need to be entertained in all things. You realize that everything doesn’t have to be fun, and that it’s through the simple things in life that the most joy can be obtained.

IV) Think about all the progress you’ve made, and the negative affects that the substance will give way to. Think about how temporary it will be and the depression associated with the choice to partake. Think about how deceitful the craving really is; and how the substance will take you to the top falsely, and then drop you into a dark hole.

V) Get moving! Don’t dwell! Go experience a workout. Go get your endorphins going naturally. You’d be surprised how physical fitness can get your mind back on track leaving you to think – “what was I thinking.” Exercise puts the mind back on track. The brain works best after an intense workout.

VI) Call someone and let them know that you are struggling. This helps take the pressure off of you. If someone else knows – you are less likely to go through with it; and chances are, this person will be able to talk you out of it.

VII) Work hard on your spirituality; look to find comfort and confidence through it. This can be accomplished through reading, prayer, going to a spiritual place such as: church, meetings, the mountains, or any place that promotes peace and calmness. Nature can bring your soul closer to your Higher Power; there is comfort through nature. There is comfort through hiking, walking in solitude, and actively praying and conversing with your Higher Power about the struggle you are now encountering.

VIII) Search for a calming sound through music. Search for music that uplifts the soul, and heightens the mood. Search for music that will lead your thoughts back to your loving family. Search for music that will lead you back to positive memories; memories of your innocence, and even childhood. Search for music that invites your Higher Power into your presence; and then look to feel His love.

IX) Endure, and wait it out—it will end. Have the understanding that it will end, and that you will feel better soon. Don’t get down on yourself by talking to yourself in a negative way. Use positive self talk; and envision yourself as a confident person who can overcome anything. Reassure yourself of how good you’ve been doing, and that you’re not going to let the craving get you.

X) Win the WAR – for this is what the SOAR program has been preparing you for all along. Beat and overcome the craving, you are prepared; now have the courage to put the SOAR Lifestyle to use. You’re in control, now just make it happen.