A note on language. At Renascent, we help people recover from substance use addiction and integrate 12-Step facilitation into our programming. We recognize that the substances our clients are recovering from and the 12-Step groups they connect with may vary. Throughout our website you may see general terms relating to the 12 Steps as we are inclusive of all recovery programs, including AA, CA, and OA.
Step 10: “Continued to take personal inventory, and when we were wrong, promptly admitted it.”
During your recovery and your journey with the Twelve Steps, there will have been many times where you were asked to reflect on your actions. Step 10 encourages you to take action, to bring your awareness into a new beginning and into a place where you are motivated to do better.
What is Step 10 in AA
Step 10 encourages you to admit your wrongs and emphasize the importance of self-awareness and honesty. This step helps you recognize patterns in your behaviour that may lead to harm to yourself or others. By integrating this step, you will be able to maintain an emotional balance, repair relationships, and stay committed through your recovery journey. This step serves as a reminder to continue your self reflection, and be willing to address your wrongs and take action.
The Importance of Step 10
The goal of participating in this step is to help foster ongoing personal accountability and growth throughout your recovery journey. By taking personal inventory regularly, you will be able to identify patterns which will make it easier for you to prevent further substance related harm. This step also focuses on humility and honesty, and encourages you to admit when you are wrong. It is a tool for you to use during your recovery journey and in all aspects of your life.
Finding Meaning in Step 10 of AA
When taking part in this step, it is important to maintain consistency. You can take part in this step by committing to daily self-reflection, and take the time to assess your actions, thoughts and actions. You can take part through meditation, prayer, or even journaling. It is most important to note areas where things could’ve been handled differently, from there you are able to acknowledge any harm that has been done to yourself and others.
Staying Consistent
Sometimes during this step, there can be challenges in trying to stay consistent, and that is normal. Common pitfalls in this step include inconsistency in self-reflection, where failing to check in regularly allows unresolved issues to build up. People may also overlook small mistakes, which can escalate if not addressed promptly. Additionally, there’s a risk of not being compassionate towards yourself which can impact your progress. Avoiding difficult conversations and letting ego interfere are other issues that can arise, as people might shy away from admitting faults or correcting behavior. Some may even neglect Step 10 during good times, thinking it’s unnecessary, or treating it as just a task rather than a genuine process of self-improvement. To overcome these challenges, it is crucial to maintain a regular, balanced practice of self-reflection, address mistakes promptly, and approach the step with humility and sincerity.
Renascent alumni Kathy shared her experience with Step 10 saying: “Step Ten, like many of the steps, has a promise. This promise reveals to us one of the most miraculous discoveries of recovery.” She shared that when she reached this step, the comfort she took in it as a way to self-reflect, and build on the relationship she has with herself. Read more about her story here.
Recovery Is A Journey
As you go throughout the steps, it is important to remember that your recovery is a journey. While you may experience pitfalls, or don’t know how to participate in the 12 Steps you are always supported here at Renascent.
How Renascent helps
At Renascent, we offer comprehensive person-centred addiction treatment programs in safe, caring environments. We use up-to-date, evidence-based approaches to treat addiction, including abstinence-based treatment that integrates 12-Step facilitation with modern clinical and medical best practices, and the highest quality standards of care.
Renascent deeply understands the unique individual journey that is necessary for your recovery. We are here to support you and guide you to define what your recovery means to you. Your Road to Recovery starts here.
