The Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous Alcoholics Anonymous

Tradition 2 has been misquoted many times as “we have no leaders.” But it clearly states that each group does have its leaders—they just have no authority over the rest of the group. Whether they be the group’s representative to the area or district, or the secretary or treasurer, they have been entrusted with the responsibility to serve the group, not make decisions for it. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) suggests that such traditions can help promote a culture of recovery that can be helpful for people struggling with substance use issues.

Tradition 9: Organization

• Join our mailing list to receive the latest news and updates from your friends at Houston Intergroup.
• Going to a professional counselor is different from going to a group of others who are in recovery.
• The organization does not accept outside contributions and relies heavily on literature sales.

Willingness is about being open-minded and flexible in recovery. It means being ready to do whatever it takes to maintain sobriety and grow as a person. The Charter and Bylaws of the General Service Board are legal instruments, empowering the trustees to manage and conduct world service affairs. The Conference Charter is not a legal document; it relies upon tradition and the A.A. I. Final responsibility and ultimate authority for A.A.

Tradition 3: Eligibility

The two men attributed their success in overcoming alcohol dependence to the fact that they were able to work with other alcoholics. There is an ease in discussion and sharing when everyone around you has gone through similar struggles. This group believed that alcohol affected the body, mind, and spirit and that all three needed to be treated to recover.

Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions ASL – Introduction

While the 12 Steps of AA are designed for individuals working toward sobriety, the 12 Traditions of AA address Alcoholics Anonymous and its members as an entire body. They’re the guidelines that inform the direction and operating procedures of the AA organization, and they help ensure continuity among all of the member groups worldwide. what does aa stand for alcohol The 12 Steps were written as reflections on how founding AA members coped with and overcame their struggles with alcohol. These reflections have since turned into a working methodology for alcoholics to use as they work toward recovery. We admitted we were powerless over alcohol — that our lives had become unmanageable.

Practicing faith in the 12-Step approach usually refers to pray, meditation, and charity (being of service to others). During times of anxiety and/or depression, we tend to think in a very narrow sense. We think the show is over; let the credits roll. However, I cannot change their feelings of distrust.

• Courage is essential for facing fears, confronting past behaviors, and taking steps toward recovery.
• On the other hand, millions have acknowledged their belief that AA and its principles saved their life.

Meetings may cater to specific demographics, but they generally welcome anyone who desires to stop drinking. AA is self-supporting, with donations from members covering expenses, and it operates through an “inverted pyramid” structure, where individual groups function autonomously. The organization does not accept outside contributions and relies heavily on literature sales. AA also provides services in hospitals, treatment centers, and correctional facilities. A hallmark of 12-step recovery programs is the offer of anonymity to participants.

Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions ASL – Tradition Four

• We feel it better to let our friends recommend us.
• If you want to move forward, building a safe community for yourself is essential.
• This step is about finding a great power to put your faith in.
• Some people may be able to work through the steps relatively quickly, while others may take months or even years to complete the process.