Understanding Step 3 in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Recovery
Step 3 of the Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) 12-step program is often considered a pivotal point in the recovery journey. This step, where individuals make a decision to turn their will and life over to the care of God as they understand Him, involves a deep surrender and the beginning of a spiritual awakening. To effectively navigate this step, members often turn to various worksheets designed to help facilitate self-exploration and surrender. Here's an overview of three essential worksheets that aid in this process.
Worksheet 1: The Decision-Making Grid
The decision-making grid is a useful tool for those struggling with control issues or uncertainty in turning over their will:
- Column 1: My Own Will - List what your will typically dictates (e.g., drinking, avoiding responsibilities, manipulating situations).
- Column 2: Outcome of My Own Will - Evaluate how your will has led to positive or negative outcomes.
- Column 3: God's Will - Reflect on what you perceive as God's will or a Higher Power’s guidance.
- Column 4: Expected Outcome - Imagine the potential results when following what you believe to be God's will.
✍️ Note: This worksheet helps individuals visualize the contrast between their own desires and the guidance of a Higher Power.
Worksheet 2: Surrender and Trust
This worksheet aids in establishing trust in a Higher Power:
| Aspect of Life | My Control | Higher Power's Control |
|---|---|---|
| Relationships | Manipulating, lying, selfish motives | Honesty, openness, growth |
| Career/Job | Putting work ahead of sobriety | Balance, peace, progress |
By filling out this table, members begin to relinquish control in areas of life where they feel most vulnerable:
- Higher Power's Role - Consider what role your Higher Power could play in these aspects.
- My Role - Determine your responsibilities in letting go.
- Surrender Statement - Craft a personal statement of surrender for each area.
Worksheet 3: The Serenity Prayer
The Serenity Prayer has been adapted into a worksheet for ongoing reflection:
- Grant me the Serenity - Write down situations that currently lack serenity.
- To accept the things I cannot change - List things beyond your control.
- Courage to change the things I can - Identify areas where you can take action.
- And Wisdom to know the difference - Reflect on how to discern what you should accept or change.
Completing this worksheet encourages daily practice of acceptance, courage, and wisdom:
- Daily Affirmation - Write a personal affirmation related to the Serenity Prayer.
- Weekly Goal - Set a goal to practice one aspect of the prayer (e.g., acceptance).
💬 Note: Incorporating this prayer into daily life promotes a mindset shift crucial for recovery.
Why These Worksheets Matter
Each of these worksheets serves a distinct purpose in working through Step 3:
- Decision-Making Grid - Assists in seeing the consequences of personal decisions versus divine guidance.
- Surrender and Trust - Helps in understanding and implementing the concept of control vs. faith.
- The Serenity Prayer - Promotes daily mindfulness and transformation.
By engaging with these tools, members can better navigate their way through Step 3, finding a level of peace and clarity in the surrender process.
Final Thoughts
Working through Step 3 with the aid of worksheets not only provides structure but also a deeper insight into oneself. This step is about letting go of the control that has often led to addiction and embracing a life guided by a Higher Power. Remember, recovery is an evolving process, and these worksheets are meant to be revisited and adapted as one's understanding grows. The key is to practice these principles in all your affairs, fostering a life of honesty, willingness, and faith.
What is the purpose of using worksheets in Step 3 of AA?
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Worksheets provide a structured approach to reflect, explore, and apply Step 3, encouraging members to surrender their will and trust in a Higher Power.
Can these worksheets be adapted for those who don’t believe in God?
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Yes, the concept of a Higher Power can be adapted to fit one’s personal beliefs, which might include a force greater than oneself, like nature, the universe, or even the fellowship of AA itself.
How often should I fill out these worksheets?
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It’s beneficial to revisit these worksheets regularly, perhaps weekly, to assess your progress and adjust your understanding of Step 3.
