In the journey of recovery from alcoholism through the Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) 12 Step Program, Step 6 is often described as the step where one becomes entirely ready to have God, or your higher power, remove all defects of character. This step signifies a pivotal shift in recovery, moving from the acknowledgment of flaws and amends to actively preparing for transformation. This article will delve into how to effectively utilize the Step 6 AA Worksheet to better understand and overcome these character defects.
Understanding Step 6
Step 6 of AA’s 12 steps says, “We were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.” Here, readiness is key. It’s about cultivating a true willingness to change, an acceptance of one’s imperfections, and a firm commitment to bettering oneself with the help of a higher power.
The Step 6 AA Worksheet
The Step 6 AA Worksheet acts as a roadmap for this critical step. It prompts you to reflect, write, and work through your character defects, facilitating personal growth and transformation. Here’s how you can approach this worksheet:
1. Identify Character Defects
- Self-Reflection: Start by listing out known defects. These could include resentment, fear, dishonesty, selfishness, or any other behaviors and attitudes that have been harmful.
- Feedback from Others: Engage with your sponsor or other members of AA for insights into defects that might be less obvious to you.
| Defect | Description |
|---|---|
| Resentment | Harboring negative feelings towards others, often due to perceived wrongs or injustices. |
| Selfishness | Focus on one’s own needs at the expense of others, sometimes leading to isolation or broken relationships. |
2. Understand the Impact
- Write about how each defect has affected your life or the lives of others. This isn’t to dwell on guilt or shame but to gain clarity on the necessity of change.
3. Explore Causes
- Consider the roots of these defects. Are they driven by fear, insecurity, past traumas, or learned behaviors?
4. Willingness to Let Go
- Write a statement of willingness for each defect. Acknowledge your readiness to let go of these behaviors. For example: “I am ready to release my selfishness because it has led to my isolation from loved ones.”
5. Visualize the New Self
- Imagine how life would look without these defects. Describe the new behaviors or attitudes you wish to adopt, highlighting the benefits and the freedom from negativity.
👉 Note: Transformation might not be instantaneous, and it’s okay to revisit this step. Keep an open mind and maintain the desire for change.
Key Principles for Working Step 6
To effectively overcome character defects with the Step 6 AA Worksheet:
- Honesty: Be as honest as possible with yourself. Growth begins with acknowledging reality, no matter how harsh it might seem.
- Humility: Recognize your limitations and accept that you need help from a higher power and the community around you.
- Patience: Transformation is a process. Changes will occur gradually, and self-compassion is crucial.
In your journey of recovery, using the Step 6 AA Worksheet is more than just a task; it's a transformative act. It requires honesty with oneself, humility to accept help, and patience as one waits for change. Working through this step with dedication can significantly reduce the power of defects and open doors to a new, more fulfilling life. Personal growth in recovery is not about erasing who you are but refining and improving aspects of your character to live a life of sobriety, serenity, and service.
What if I am not ready to let go of my character defects?
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Not feeling ready is part of the process. The key is to continue to engage with your community, discuss with your sponsor, and work through each defect. Willingness develops over time, and sometimes it starts with simply acknowledging the need for change.
Can I repeat Step 6 if I feel like I missed something?
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Absolutely. Recovery is not a linear path. You can revisit any step, including Step 6, multiple times to gain deeper insights and reinforce your commitment to change.
How do I know if I’m truly ready for God to remove my defects?
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Readiness might feel elusive, but signs include a desire for personal growth, a commitment to recovery, and a willingness to seek help beyond oneself. Even if readiness is not perfect, taking the step signals an intention for change.
