12th Step Podcast

The 12th Step Podcast

12th Step Podcast

  • Black & White Thinking: The Trap of All-or-Nothing in Recovery

Black & White Thinking: The Trap of All-or-Nothing in Recovery

Friday 25th April 2025

Explore how black-and-white thinking impacts recovery and learn strategies to embrace the messy middle with Gary, Mike, and Daniel.
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25 minutes
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The 12th Step Podcast
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12th Step Podcast
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Breaking Free from All-or-Nothing Thinking in Recovery

Episode Overview

  • Black-and-white thinking can trap individuals in cycles of shame and guilt.
  • Recovery involves embracing the messy middle ground rather than extremes.
  • Outside perspectives can help challenge rigid thinking patterns.
  • Simple tools like breathing techniques can calm the nervous system.
  • Recovery is about progress, not perfection.
Believe it or not, you're a people, so you're complicated and you're not that simple.
The 12th Step Podcast dives into the murky waters of black-and-white thinking in recovery, a topic inspired by listener Adam's email. This episode tackles the all-or-nothing mindset that often plagues those on the path to overcoming addiction. Hosts Gary, Mike, and Daniel share their experiences with this kind of rigid thinking, which can trap individuals in cycles of shame and guilt. They explore how this mindset can make one feel like they're either succeeding or failing, with no middle ground.
The trio brings humour and honesty to the table, discussing how they've learned to embrace the messy middle ground and avoid extremes. Daniel’s lost SD card story adds a light-hearted touch, illustrating how easy it is to fall into black-and-white thinking in everyday life. They encourage listeners to consider outside perspectives and use practical tools to challenge these thinking errors. Through anecdotes and practical advice, the hosts reveal strategies for recognising and breaking free from such limiting beliefs.
You might find yourself nodding along as they discuss how simple breathing techniques or 'the butterfly' can help calm your nervous system and bring balance to your day. The episode serves as a reminder that recovery is not about perfection but progress. With a mix of humour and wisdom, the hosts offer a comforting message: life is complex, and finding peace in recovery is about embracing both the highs and lows.
If you're curious about how black-and-white thinking might be holding you back, this conversation offers insights and tools to move forward.
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