12 step programs have many rules that seem to take away from parts of life that can make you happy. That’s not to say that all the rules in the 12 step program aren’t there for a reason. One of the big rules is not dating anyone in your first year of sobriety. There is not a really good reason not to. In fact being involved in a relationship in your first year can help to alleviate some headaches for your sponsor. Below are a few good reasons why you should begin sober dating in your first year.
There is no rule in the “book” that says you can’t get involved with someone romantically. If you have a plan of attack on how to approach life after rehab, it makes sense that you can go about your life the way you want to, with some restrictions of course. But to deny yourself the feeling of being with someone you care about just doesn’t make sense. Sober dating is difficult, especially if put in a situation you aren’t ready for yet. Being with someone who is sober does help. The ability to share the experience and work together to continuously achieve the level of clarity you are searching for is worth it.
You can do what you want, as long as you are able to accept the consequences for your actions. You should know whether you are ready to get involved with someone after a few dates. Having to deal with heartbreak is a big reason why it’s suggested that you don’t get involved with someone, but if you are strong enough, you can get through it without relapsing. You have to be able to live your life. The steps and sponsors are there to help be a guide, but you have to be able to make your own decisions based on what is good for you. If you take what you’ve learned in recovery and apply it to everyday life, sober dating can be a wonderful thing for you and for your recovery.
For more about sober dating, visit The Fix HERE.