I can’t change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.
When working Step 6, it helps to realize that in letting go of our character defects we are not ‘giving something up.’ Rather, we are learning to behave differently and in ways that better serve us. Compiling a list of affirmations can be useful in this regard. A good exercise for this is taking each of our character defects and writing three to five positive statements about living differently. These affirmations should be worded as if we’ve already conquered the defect. As an example, with ‘dishonesty’ we might write:
- I tell the truth in all matters no matter what.
- I no longer keep secrets.
- I feel good about myself when I tell the truth.
Repeating these affirmations aloud at the start and close of each day is a great way to realize that letting go of character defects really does result in gain rather than loss.
Task for Today
Create three to five positive affirmations for overcoming your most pressing character defect.