He Doth Protest Too Much (Missive from ICSAA)!He Doth Protest Too Much (Missive from ICSAA)!
Emotional Sobriety: The Next Step in Recovery
Allen Berger and Joe Chisholm check in from this year’s ICSAA conference in Orlando, Florida, to relay an anecdote from one of the speakers: “we aren’t all egomaniacs!” When we aren’t seen by our fellows, it creates an injury to our self-esteem. As we develop more differentiation (emotional sobriety), it becomes easier to not allow other people’s comments to define us. Until such time, the group conscience should look out for each other, practicing empathy and sensitivity. After all, the business of recovery is lifting other people up, so we don’t only survive but thrive. Another important takeaway from this secular conference: militant atheism can be just as toxic as militant theism. Once the conference is wrapped, listen to pitches from, Allen, Joe, and others: aasecular.org Learn more about Joe C., Secular AA and Rebellion Dogs here: https://rebelliondogspublishing.com/ Check out Howard Malitz’ Seasons of Sobriety podcast: https://pod.link/1460539626 Upcoming events with Allen Berger: https://abphd.com/events/ Follow us on social media. Podcast Twitter: @EmSobrietyPod Instagram: thomrutledge2 Joe C. Twitter: @Rebellion_Dogs Friendly Circle Berlin Workshop Group meets every Monday @ 7:30pm (Berlin), 6:30pm (Ireland & UK), 1:30pm EST, 10:30am PST Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5505019905 Allen’s book, 12 Essential Insights for Emotional Sobriety: https://www.amazon.com/12-Essential-Insights-Emotional-Sobriety/dp/1955415129/ Thom's book, Embracing Fear: https://www.amazon.com/Embracing-Fear-Turn-Scares-Greatest/dp/0062517759/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= Join Allen & Thom at our Thursday night, 7pm PST Zoom meeting on Emotional Sobriety and the Steps (login information below): https://zoom.us/j/330149513 Password: 375986 For our ongoing workshop video series on Emotional Sobriety and the 12 Steps, visit our YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHEM2-kqLkfp3I4c0jy-X-g Also, please join our “Emotional Sobriety and Recovery” FB Group at the following link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/120450976662519 We’d love to stay in touch in between meetings. We appreciate feedback! Contact Patrick, our producer, at pndirective4@gmail.com for any questions or comments.
30:40•22 Sept 2024
Embracing Emotional Sobriety: Beyond Just Staying Sober
Episode Overview
- Emotional sobriety involves addressing unhealthy dependencies.
- Feeling seen and heard is crucial for self-esteem in recovery.
- Empathy and sensitivity are essential within recovery groups.
- Not everyone in recovery struggles with egomania; some have low self-esteem.
- Secular recovery approaches offer an inclusive environment for all beliefs.
“"When we're not seen, it creates an injury to our self-esteem"”
Get ready to dive into the heart of emotional sobriety with Thom Rutledge and Dr. Allen Berger. In this episode, they’re joined by Joe Chisholm at the ICSAA conference in Orlando, Florida. The trio explores the concept of emotional sobriety, a term coined by Bill Wilson, co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous. Wilson believed that true recovery goes beyond just quitting alcohol; it’s about achieving emotional stability by addressing unhealthy dependencies and unrealistic demands.
The episode kicks off with a humorous anecdote about how we often downplay compliments, turning positives into negatives—a cognitive distortion many can relate to. Joe Chisholm shares his journey and the importance of feeling seen and heard within the recovery community. He talks about how early in his recovery, he felt included and supported, which was crucial for his self-esteem. The hosts discuss how the program can sometimes unintentionally shame people, making them feel bad about themselves.
They stress the importance of empathy and sensitivity within the group conscience, reminding us that recovery is about lifting each other up. A key takeaway from this episode is the idea that not everyone in recovery is an egomaniac. Some people struggle with low self-esteem and find it hard to identify with being called selfish or self-centred. The hosts highlight the need for a more nuanced approach, recognising that everyone’s journey is unique and requires different kinds of support.
The episode also touches on the secular nature of the ICSAA conference, where people of all beliefs are welcome. This inclusive atmosphere allows for a diverse range of experiences and perspectives, making it a rich environment for growth and learning. By the end of the episode, you’ll understand why emotional sobriety is considered the next frontier in recovery. It’s not just about staying sober; it’s about achieving a balanced emotional state where other people’s opinions don’t define you.
So, if you’re looking to deepen your understanding of recovery and emotional sobriety, this episode is a must-listen.
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