It is a human tendency to avoid showing signs of weakness. We want to project an image of unwavering strength and preparedness through every situation. As common as this is, you would not think that it is actually counterproductive to the goals we are trying to achieve. The truth that we neglect is that there is more strength and growth found where a person admits to their shortcomings and asks for help. This is true in relationships, in the workplace and in addiction.

Admitting to your weaknesses does not make you any more weak than lying to yourself makes you able. Admitting to your weaknesses is a sign that you are using objective critical thinking instead of bravado. For example, when an alcoholic admits to themselves and to others that they are not strong enough to walk into a bar and stay sober, they are exhibiting strength in knowing themselves.

Reaching out to your support system becomes vital when you choose to be strong enough to admit to your weaknesses. It takes courage to admit that you are struggling in addiction or in recovery, and the encouragement that your support system provides is invaluable. Reaching out to your support system can also be an intelligent way of preventing relapse. For example, if your family has always had alcohol at family events and it does not occur to them to stop serving it, it might take strength on your part to tell them that your recovery requires the alcohol to be eliminated. A good support system will take your request seriously.

Turning to your higher power for strength is a very effective way of preventing relapse, some would argue the most effective. Not everyone believes in a higher power, but statistically, those who defer to a higher power for strength in addiction recovery have more success than those who do not. Those who turn to their higher power report feeling stronger and more able to overcome their addiction because of it.