Willingness is a major component in recovery and the willingness to recover from any type of addiction resides within the individual seeking recovery. But, what exactly does willingness mean in terms of recovery? Willingness is defined as: being ready to do something without being forced; to do something with cooperation and enthusiasm; to do something voluntarily. Certainly there are more, but here are just seven factors that determine willingness in recovery.

Seven Major Factors That Determine Willingness in Recovery:

1. Being Honest: Willingness to be honest, even though your human nature may say otherwise. Honesty in admitting that you’re powerless over your addiction is the first step in your recovery.

2. Taking Action: Taking action entails working through the Twelve Steps in your program with a sponsor or guide, attending regular support group meetings, and making progress.

3. Trusting: Willingness to trust that your program will deliver the positive results it has delivered to others in recovery. Trusting that you will become happy, joyous, and free.

4. Following: Willingness to follow the suggestions as outlined in the 12-Steps for recovery that has worked for others before you came along. Following your program of recovery for success.

5. Believing: Willingness to believe in a Power greater than yourself that can restore you to sanity. Believing in the power of the group for support for a better life.

6. Joining: Willingness to join a recovery group with like-minded people for the purpose of support. An ancient saying says there’s safety in numbers, this is especially true in recovery.

7. Reaching Out: Willingness to reach out to others who are still suffering to offer them hope.

Offering of your time and energy, just as others have done for you.

These are only seven major factors that determine willingness in your recovery from your addictions. To get better results from your program of recovery, it’s important to know just what you are willing to do to maintain your recovery and its benefits.