Facing Confrontation in Sobriety: Tips for Speaking Your Truth
We're abandoning ourselves every time by not protecting our needs and wants and not expressing them, and it is one of the hardest. And I think it takes time to learn this new language.
Why is confrontation such a tough nut to crack, especially when you're sober? Hosts Kristina Dennis and Damon Frank dive into this tricky topic in this episode of The Recovered Life Show. They explore why many people in recovery find it hard to face confrontation head-on. Often, alcohol or drugs were used as a crutch to dodge difficult conversations or mask emotions. But now, in sobriety, learning to speak your truth is essential for personal growth and healthy relationships.
Kristina and Damon compare learning to confront others in sobriety to picking up a new language. It requires time, practice, and a lot of patience. They stress the importance of understanding yourself first—knowing who you are and what you want can make communication a lot smoother. Setting boundaries is another key element they discuss. It's all about starting small, figuring out your wants in minor situations, and then gradually tackling bigger issues.
The hosts also touch on codependency, a common hurdle in the path to effective confrontation. Codependent individuals often avoid confrontation due to fears of rejection or abandonment. Kristina and Damon emphasize that learning to confront others is crucial for building healthy relationships. They also talk about the importance of taking responsibility for your own happiness. Relying on others for your happiness can lead to dependency, but learning to be self-sufficient helps create balanced, interdependent relationships.
This episode is packed with practical advice on how to face confrontation without fear. By setting boundaries, speaking your truth, and taking charge of your own happiness, you can foster healthier relationships and live your best-recovered life. Tune in to The Recovered Life Show for this insightful discussion.