The first step of recovery is admitting you have a problem.

This statement has been used repeatedly to the point that it is trite.  And yet, it remains one of the most significant steps for people to turn their lives in a new direction.

Unfortunately, so many people have spouses, family members, and friends making destructive decisions, and they don’t know how to get them to stop.  When someone denies having a problem, they need someone to break in with the truth.  This can be an intervention by an individual or by a group of people.  My colleague used to call them “Come to Jesus meetings.” No matter what form it takes, people need to hear how their behavior negatively impacts themselves and others.

Through the years, I have been a part of counseling, private meetings, individual conversations, and even preached sermons to help people see their issues.  Most of it has generated little results because people in denial do not think anyone sees their choices as an issue.  It is the very definition of the problem. 

What would happen if you were finally honest with yourself and others?  What if you asked hard questions about your attitudes, words, and actions?  If someone told you that you have a problem, would you be willing to listen to them?  Would you get angry and push away those who are trying to help you?  Are you ready to listen to the voices around you and not just your inner dialog that always tells you that you are a good person?

What would it take to get you to the point where you would make changes?

Only you can answer that question but know the first step of recovery will always be admitting you have a problem.