I can’t change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.
When working Step Six, 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 character defect and writing three to five positive statements about living differently. These affirmations should be worded as if you’ve already conquered the defect. For instance, with “dishonesty” you might write:
- I tell the truth in all matters, no matter what.
- I no longer keep secrets from important people in my life.
- 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 a better life. And that realization inevitably creates much of the willingness needed for Step Six.
Just for Today
I will create three to five positive affirmations designed to help me overcome a character defect.