The path of least resistance is by definition the easiest and most comfortable choice in life. Just as you wouldn’t deliberately choose the road with more traffic, you are unlikely to choose the more uncomfortable option unless there is an obvious benefit. However, sometimes in life, the benefits are difficult to see in the moment, and instead we are only able to see the unpleasant nature of the uncomfortable choice. If you wish to make any monumental change, or evolve into the best version of yourself, it is important to understand that learning to embrace discomfort is a critical aspect of growth.
Embracing Discomfort
When it comes to addiction recovery, learning to stop resisting discomfort is necessary to achieve and maintain sobriety. Quitting drugs or alcohol usually comes with some form of withdrawal — be it physical or psychological — that causes severe discomfort. While this phase is temporary, it is tempting to want to turn and run from the uneasiness by falling back into substance abuse. Understanding this process on a chemical level can help you acknowledge the discomfort as your mind and body’s way of regaining balance without substances. In addition to the immediate unpleasantness of withdrawal, recovery from addiction involves many uncomfortable moments and circumstances within your relationships. If you choose to always avoid uncomfortable conversations and fail to embrace new experiences, you will not be able to successfully build a sober lifestyle consisting of healthy interactions with your loved ones.
Coping with Being Uncomfortable
There are many ways to prepare yourself for the discomfort of recovery by changing your thought patterns. Yoga, for example, is a great tool for learning to embrace hardship, and can provide you with a concrete example of how the discomfort allows you to build strength and flexibility. Additionally, many therapy techniques can be used to help you address uncomfortable topics and work through emotional discomfort so you can build strength and flexibility on an emotional plane as well.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, now is the time to reach out for help. At Arbor Behavioral Healthcare, you will meet knowledgeable, compassionate professionals who understand addiction in all its forms. The Arbor uses an integrative and holistic approach to treat addiction and mental health issues. No treatment is one-size-fits-all, and at The Arbor you will have a team of experts prepared to create your customized treatment plan. We offer care for your mind, body, and spirit so you can heal from the inside out and look forward to a lifetime of sobriety and wellness. If you are ready to take the first step in your recovery, please call us today at 844-413-2690.