Step 7 of Alcoholics Anonymous
Completing the first 6 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) can represent a tipping point for many who are involved in the process. With Step 7, people shift from taking personal inventory and responsibility for their struggles with alcohol to actively amending their behaviors and the wrongs they have caused others in their pursuit of alcohol. This page will help you learn more about Step 7 of AA, including what this Step entails and how to seek support near you if you are struggling.
What Is Step 7 of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)?
Step 7 of Alcoholics Anonymous involves humbly asking a higher power to remove our character defects. The direct text of Step 7 reads; “Humbly ask Him (God, inspiration, etc.) to remove our shortcomings.” The pivotal part of this Step is often humility. The 7th Step of AA encourages self-reflection so a person can acknowledge their flaws and seek spiritual guidance for personal growth. For people in recovery from alcohol addiction, this step can help them make positive changes in their attitude and behavior.
Humility & Step 7 of Alcoholics Anonymous
Where humility comes into play is in determining how one handles difficult emotions that may arise when interacting with Step 7 of AA. Whether one is asking a God or a secular source of inspiration for help, they will need to acknowledge their relative lack of power over their struggle with alcohol. Learning to be humble, however, is no small task. Throughout our lives, we are often instilled with the belief that taking pride in oneself and one’s work and actions can be positive. However, when one takes actions to satiate an alcohol addiction, especially actions that harm others, taking pride in this can be a negative. Understanding one’s position and going forward with humility can be an important aspect of the Step 7 of AA.
How to Complete Step 7 of AA
If you have completed the first 6 Steps of AA, you should be proud of your accomplishments thus far. As you continue your recovery journey, these tips can you complete the 7th Step of AA.
Practicing Mindfulness & Step 7 of AA
One way to work on Step 7 of AA is to engage in mindfulness practices. Whether through prayer or meditation, being present in the moment can be a powerful way to put yourself and your actions in perspective. Seeing things from a different perspective can help you reflect on your actions as well, enabling introspection and change.
Asking for Help with Step 7 of AA
As stated, Step 7 marks a transition in the 12-Step process in which one will start applying their reflective changes to the physical world. As such, many may struggle to practice this step. Seeking help from a sponsor, friend, or licensed professional can be important. Not only is the admission that one needs help an act of humility, but it can also help one recognize how their behaviors and actions are perceived by others.
Finding Help for Alcohol Addiction
Help for alcohol addiction is easy to find, but it is not always easy to ask for. Overcoming alcohol addiction can be a long and sometimes frustrating process. Still, if you’ve decided to stop drinking you’ve crossed the most important hurdle in your recovery.
If you’re ready to get help with alcohol addiction, visit the AA website to find a support group near you. Many secular programs may help you achieve or maintain recovery. However, if you or a loved one needs detox support or addiction treatment, you may benefit from attending treatment at an inpatient alcohol rehab or outpatient alcohol rehab.
American Addiction Centers (AAC) operates treatment facilities nationwide, with professional admissions navigators standing by 24/7 to help you get admitted into treatment. Our addiction helpline may also be able to help connect you with rehabs near you. To speak to an admissions navigator, call . You’re not alone, we’re here to help. If you’re struggling with alcohol addiction, use the form below to check if your health insurance could potentially cover the expenses of rehabilitation and related therapies.