While recovering from a substance abuse disorder is serious business, keep in mind that one of the treatment goals is to discover alternative ways to find fulfillment. Having fun in recovery is encouraged! By finding activities or outlets that are meaningful, you can increase the chances that you can thrive once you complete your stay in rehab. Once you redefine your idea of fun – one that doesn’t include drugs or alcohol – you’ll be better prepared to keep busy and fill your leisure time with healthy activities.
Finding Fulfillment and Having Fun in Recovery
Every person has a different idea of what fun means. It may be a thrill-seeking activity that brings you joy, or it could be something that provides spiritual nourishment. Here are some suggestions for you to consider.
Rediscover a Favorite Sport or Take Up a New One
Exercise is a great way to blow off steam and produce the endorphins that can provide a more healthy kind of high. And when you participate in a sport, you either set goals for yourself or work together in a team to achieve them. In recovery, you learn about goal-setting, community, and the importance of support. Playing sports can help you practice those skills.
Find a Hobby or Rededicate Yourself to One
Think way back to a time before drugs or alcohol took over your life. Was there something you enjoyed, like painting or cooking? Or have you always been interested in exploring a topic but never made the time to get started? Now is your opportunity to dedicate yourself to a beloved craft or commit to trying a new one. These hobbies can also act as a distraction if you find yourself struggling with the urge to use again. If you find yourself not having fun in recovery, it’s time to try something new!
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Enroll in a Class
Give some thought to how you’re going to approach your career post-recovery. Just because it’s work-related doesn’t mean it can’t be fun or fulfilling! In fact, if there’s a job or career you’ve always wanted to explore, now is the time to find out if it’s right for you. If you end up loving it, work will turn out to be a meaningful part of your life.
Spend More Time with Family and Friends
If you’re lucky enough to have family and friends who are supporting you throughout your recovery, take advantage of that blessing and reap the rewards of spending time with them. Their commitment to you is proof that these are people you want by your side. When you let them into your life, you will benefit as well. Your friends and family want to see you having fun in recovery, as much as you deserve to be able to!
Open Your Eyes to the World Around You
When was the last time you truly explored the people, places, and things around you? Appreciate the stunning beauty of a sunset, listen to the sounds of children laughing, or take a walk and admire the vibrant colors of the blooming flowers you see on your path. It sounds sappy, but being open to the wonders of nature and humanity can be very fulfilling.
Devote Your Time to a Meaningful Cause
There’s nothing more rewarding than giving back to the community or committing to a cause that’s close to your heart. Take some time to ponder what’s most important to you and find a way to contribute to the organization’s goals.
Having Fun in Recovery is an Integral Part of Long-Term Sobriety
Your recovery is not complete once you leave a drug or alcohol rehab facility. The skills you learn will guide your behavior for the long-term. Learning alternative ways to have fun or find fulfillment will go far in helping you to remain sober. At Ocean Hills Recovery, our trained, supportive staff will help you learn to manage your recovery for last-lasting success. Contact us today to learn more about our life-changing programs.
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