Recovery On Life’s Terms

By Troy Hatfield, Residential Tech Manager

One of the biggest challenges we face in recovery is learning to live life on life’s terms. Sobriety is a gift, but it also means confronting and feeling everything life throws our way; without the buffer of substances. 

When we were in active addiction, it was all too easy to escape from our problems. Stressful day? Get high. Feeling sad? Reach for a drink. The substances became a shield, numbing the difficult emotions and hiding us from the reality of life. For many of us new to recovery, the idea of actually feeling those emotions was terrifying. We had become experts at burying our feelings in a bottle or with another substance. But sobriety demands a different approach. Now, we face life unfiltered. Every joy, every pain, every challenge — we feel it all. 

“One of the most eye-opening realizations I’ve had since embracing a sober lifestyle is seeing how people who have never struggled with addiction handle life’s ups and downs. They’re not perfect, and they certainly don’t have it all figured out, but they navigate their emotions and challenges without running away,” said Troy Hatfield, Second Chances Residential Tech Manager. 

“Living life on life’s terms isn’t always easy. There are days when the weight of it all feels unbearable. But in those moments, I remind myself that sobriety gives me a chance to grow, to face my fears, and to learn new ways of coping. I don’t have to run anymore.” 

Tips for Living Life on Life’s Terms: 

1. Build a Strong Support Network. Surround yourself with people who understand your journey. Whether it’s a sponsor, a recovery group, or close friends, having a support system can make all the difference. 

1. Take it One Day at a Time. Focus on today instead of worrying about the future. Breaking life into manageable pieces makes challenges feel less daunting. 

1. Learn Healthy Coping Mechanisms. Replace old habits with positive ones. Exercise, creative hobbies, or spending time in nature can provide healthy outlets for stress. 

1. Be Patient with Yourself. Recovery is a journey, not a destination. Allow yourself the grace to make mistakes and grow from them. 

1. Celebrate Small Wins. Acknowledge your progress, no matter how small. Each step forward is a victory worth celebrating. 

If you’re in recovery and struggling to face life’s challenges, know that you’re not alone. Lean on your support system, seek out tools that work for you, and remind yourself that you are stronger than your struggles. 

If you or a loved one needs help, contact our 24/7 information and intake line at 833.780.3088. Second chances are only a call away.