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Step 1 of the 12-Step Program of AA and NA
Step 1: "We admitted we were powerless over alcohol (or our addiction)—that our lives had become unmanageable."
Step 1 is the foundation of the 12-step program for Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA). It involves an honest acknowledgment of the struggles caused by addiction. This step is about recognizing that control has been lost and that reliance on willpower alone cannot resolve the issue. Acceptance is key here—it opens the door to change and lays the groundwork for recovery. By admitting powerlessness, individuals begin to shift their focus toward seeking help, support, and a solution beyond themselves. It’s a courageous first step toward a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Step 1: Admitting Powerlessness and Beginning Your Recovery Journey
The Importance of Step 1
Step 1 acts as the foundation for the entire recovery process. For me, it was about fully accepting the fact that my addiction was controlling my life and that I couldn’t fix it on my own. This realization didn’t happen overnight—it was uncomfortable, humbling, and at times, overwhelming. But it was also liberating. Once I admitted my powerlessness, I was no longer fighting a losing battle on my own. I could finally begin to heal.
How I Approached Step 1
1. Journaling My Honest Truth
One method I used to confront Step 1 was through journaling. I sat down with a notebook and wrote out all the way my addiction had taken over my life. I listed how it had damaged my relationships, my health, and my self-worth. At first, putting this on paper made me feel ashamed and exposed, but as I kept writing, I began to see the chaos my addiction had caused with clarity. This helped me face the truth head-on. If you’re feeling stuck or unsure where to start, try writing out your story in an honest and uncensored way. It can be a powerful way to own your struggle.
2. Sharing in a Group Setting
Another approach I took was sharing my feelings openly in a meeting like this one. When I first walked into a room full of people who were going through the same struggle, I felt nervous and defensive. But as others shared their stories, I realized I wasn’t alone. When it was my turn to speak, I admitted out loud, “I’m [Your Name], and I’m powerless over my addiction.” Saying those words was terrifying, but also a huge relief. It was like I was letting go of the weight I had been carrying for years. If you’re willing to share your thoughts in a group, you might find it helps you feel less isolated in your journey. (see A.A. Meetings page and N.A. Meetings page)
3. Reflecting with a Trusted Sponsor
The third method that helped me work through Step 1 was having a one-on-one conversation with my sponsor and sober peers/ support (see Peer support page). My sponsor asked me questions that forced me to reflect, like, “What areas of your life feel unmanageable right now?” and “Have you tried to control your addiction, and how has it worked out?” These questions were tough to answer, but they helped me see the patterns in my behavior and accept that I couldn’t do this alone. If you don’t yet have a sponsor, consider reaching out to someone in your recovery group who you feel comfortable talking to. (More on, how to find a sponsor further on)
Thoughts and Feelings During Step 1
Throughout this process, I experienced a wide range of emotions. I felt fear because I didn’t know what life would look like without my addiction. I felt guilt for the pain I had caused others, and I felt anger at myself for letting things get so bad. But I also felt relief—relief that I didn’t have to pretend anymore, that I wasn’t alone, and that help was available to me. Admitting powerlessness wasn’t a sign of weakness; it was a sign of courage and strength. It was the first step toward taking my life back. (see Emotional Regulation)
Finding What Works for You
Everyone’s journey is unique, and there’s no “right” way to approach Step 1. Some of you might find journaling helpful, while others might benefit from group discussions or one-on-one conversations. The important thing is to be honest—with yourself and with others. Step 1 isn’t about fixing everything overnight; it’s about acknowledging the truth and opening the door to change. Be patient with yourself and remember that taking this first step is an act of bravery.
Conclusion
To all of you in this room, I want to say this: Step 1 is hard, but it’s worth it. It’s the beginning of a new chapter in your life—one that’s built on honesty, connection, and hope. No matter how far gone you think you are, recovery is possible. You’re not alone, and you don’t have to fight this battle by yourself. I hope that my experience has given you some ideas about how to approach Step 1, and I encourage you to take it one day—one moment—at a time. Thank you for letting me share.
Admitting Your Addiction Has Taken Over
Recognizing that you’re struggling with addiction is tough, but it’s an important step toward getting better. It starts with being honest with yourself: has your addiction taken over your life? Ask yourself some straightforward questions. Has your substance use or behavior hurt your relationships with family or friends? Have you ignored responsibilities at work, school, or home because of it? Do you often find yourself making excuses for your actions? Have you tried to stop or cut back but couldn’t? These are signs that your addiction may be controlling you.
Think about how your choices affect the people around you. Ask them directly: “How has my addiction affected you?” or “Have you seen changes in my behavior or mood?” Try to listen to what they say without getting defensive. You might realize that missed plans, broken promises, or emotional distance have hurt those who care about you. Also, look at how your addiction has impacted your health. Are you feeling drained, unfocused, or unwell? Do you use substances or behaviors to deal with stress, sadness, or boredom? These are clear signs that addiction is taking a toll on your life.
Admitting you’ve lost control isn’t easy, but it’s the first step to taking control back. It’s okay to feel scared or overwhelmed—this doesn’t mean you’re weak. Reaching out to trusted friends, family, or professionals shows you’re ready to make a change. Remember, admitting you need help isn’t the end of the road—it’s the start of your journey to recovery.
Finding the Right Sponsor: My Journey in Recovery
When I first started my recovery journey, I heard a lot of talk about finding a sponsor, and honestly, I wasn’t sure where to begin. I was told to approach it like "sponsor shopping," which sounded a bit strange at first, but it made so much sense as I got deeper into the process. A sponsor is a crucial part of the 12-step program—they’re a guide, a mentor, and someone who’s been through the steps themselves. But just like finding the right pair of shoes, not every sponsor will be the right fit, and that’s perfectly okay.
What really eased my anxiety was realizing that sponsors understand the process. They know you might reach out, work together for a while, and then decide it isn’t the best match. They don’t judge or take offense if you feel like you need to move on and try someone new. Recovery is deeply personal, and having someone who understands and supports you without ego makes all the difference. A good sponsor wants what’s best for you, even if it means stepping aside and giving you the space to explore other options.
Confidentiality was another key factor for me. I needed to know I could open up about my struggles, my fears, and my progress without worrying about my story being shared. The foundation of trust in a sponsor-sponsee relationship is critical. Sponsors are there to listen, not to spread your business or judge you. This safe space allowed me to let my guard down and do the hard, honest work the program requires.
If you’re new to the program or looking for a sponsor, my advice is simple: take your time, trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to "shop around." Choosing a sponsor is about finding someone you feel comfortable with, someone who understands where you are and where you want to go. And remember, this is your recovery journey—taking the steps to find the right person is an act of self-care and empowerment. (A.A. meetings and N.A. Meetings are the start of finding you a trusted sponsor- we LOVE to see newcomers! there is no obligation to share at meetings! we don't pay any attention to physical appearance, only to the acknowledgement that you are there and show compassion, gratitude and praise for showing yourself the respect and self-love for showing up!)
Step 1: Embracing Honesty and Acceptance
Good evening, everyone. My name is [Your Name], and I’m an addict in recovery. Today, I want to share with you how I successfully embraced Step 1 of the 12-Step Program – admitting that I was powerless over my addiction and that my life had become unmanageable. This step required a deep level of honesty, humility, and self-reflection, which wasn’t easy, but it was absolutely necessary for my recovery journey.
At first, I resisted this step because admitting powerlessness felt like I was giving up. But over time, I realized that it wasn’t about giving up; it was about letting go of the illusion of control. My addiction had taken over every part of my life—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I kept telling myself I could stop whenever I wanted, but the truth was, I couldn’t. I had to face the fact that my own efforts to control my addiction were failing. This wasn’t a sign of weakness but an acknowledgment of reality.
The turning point for me came when I hit rock bottom. I felt trapped, ashamed, and isolated. It was in that moment of despair that I began to understand the importance of surrendering. I sat in a meeting, surrounded by others who understood my pain, and I heard someone say, “Admitting powerlessness is the first step toward finding freedom.” That stuck with me. I realized I couldn’t navigate this alone—I needed help, guidance, and a higher power, however I chose to define it.
Taking Step 1 wasn’t just about saying the words; it was about internalizing them. I had to break through my pride and denial and accept my reality. I started journaling about the ways my addiction had harmed me and those I loved. I listed the times I had lost control, the lies I told, and the relationships I damaged. Seeing it all on paper was painful, but it made the truth undeniable. This process wasn’t about self-pity; it was about accountability and clarity.
Once I admitted that I was powerless, a strange thing happened—I felt relief. For the first time in years, I wasn’t fighting a losing battle with myself. Instead, I chose to trust the process and lean on others for support. I focused on showing up to meetings, listening to others’ stories, and being honest about my struggles. Slowly but surely, I began to feel hope. Accepting my powerlessness didn’t mean I was helpless; it meant I was ready to make room for change.
Step 1 taught me that recovery begins with truth. It’s not about being perfect or fixing everything overnight. It’s about taking that first step and admitting, “I need help.” If you’re here tonight and struggling with this step, I want you to know that you’re not alone. It’s okay to feel afraid or uncertain. Just remember, acknowledging the problem is the foundation for building a new, healthier life. From one addict to another, I can promise you this: freedom starts with honesty.
(see A.A. meetings and N.A. meetings)
Letting Go: Starting Your Recovery
Admitting you can’t control your addiction is tough but essential. Step 1 of the 12 Steps states: "We admitted we were powerless over alcohol—that our lives had become unmanageable." This isn’t weakness; it’s recognizing that handling addiction alone isn’t working and seeking help is okay.
Letting go of the idea that you can fix this alone can change your life. Take an honest look at how addiction has impacted you—damaged relationships, missed opportunities, health issues, or emotional struggles. Acknowledge that managing it alone hasn’t worked. Facing this truth is crucial to understanding why support is necessary.
Be vulnerable and admit you can’t do it all alone. Vulnerability is a strength in recovery. Share with someone you trust—a friend, family member, therapist, or support group. Saying “I need help” can bring immense relief and set change in motion.
Let go of the idea that sheer willpower will fix everything. Letting go isn’t giving up—it’s embracing support, building connections, and trusting the recovery process. Admitting powerlessness opens doors to tools, guidance, and people ready to help you rebuild your life.
Step 1 isn’t failure—it’s courage. You’re not alone; many share this path, and help is always available. Take that first step: admit you need help and embrace the hope of recovery.