Category: Alcoholics Anonymous

The non-alcoholic beverage industry has exploded in recent years, offering more than enough options for those looking to skip the alcohol but not the flavor. What’s more, this trend is clear to stay.

As more people embrace sobriety or simply cut back on alcohol consumption, beverage companies have stepped up to the plate, delivering innovative and delicious alternatives.

From herbal teas to zero-proof spirits, there’s never been a better time to explore the world of non-alcoholic drinks. Let’s dive into the top 10 companies leading this refreshing trend.

1. Spindrift

Spindrift is a sparkling water brand that infuses squeezed fruit into its products. Actually, Spindrift uses only real squeezed fruit instead of relying on artificial flavors, and this commitment to authenticity has resonated with consumers, allowing Spindrift to enjoy rapid growth in the competitive sparkling water category. 

Fan favorites like Raspberry Lime, Pineapple, and Grapefruit showcase the brand’s dedication to natural flavors without artificial sweeteners. Spindrift’s success proves that sometimes, less really is more when it comes to ingredients.

2. Waterloo

Waterloo has become a darling of the health-conscious crowd by offering bold flavors without any sweeteners. As one of the fastest-growing sparkling water brands in the US, Waterloo has carved out a niche with its zero–calorie, non-GMO Project-verified products. 

Their Black Cherry, Watermelon, and Grape flavors have quickly gained a following, showing consumers are eager for options that deliver taste without compromise.

3. Seedlip

Seedlip is the world’s first distilled non-alcoholic spirit brand. Launched in 2015, it has grown quickly and pioneered the “what to drink when you’re not drinking” movement. 

Their adult-oriented alternatives to alcohol, such as Seedlip Garden 108 and Seedlip Spice 94, have found a home in high-end bars and restaurants worldwide, showing a growing demand for nuanced non-alcoholic options that can stand in for traditional spirits.

4. Fever-Tree

Known for its premium mixers, Fever-Tree has become the go-to brand for crafting non-alcoholic cocktails. As the leader in the premium mixer category, Fever-Tree’s Indian Tonic Water and Ginger Beer have become staples at cocktail bars and in-home cocktail kits alike. 

The brand’s focus on high-quality ingredients has made it a favorite among mixologists and consumers looking to elevate their mocktail game.

5. GT’s Living Foods

GT’s has established itself as a powerhouse in the kombucha market, offering a range of probiotic-rich fermented beverages. As the largest kombucha brand in the US, GT has helped bring this once-niche drink into the mainstream. 

Popular flavors like Gingerade, Trilogy, and Synergy have won over consumers with their tangy profiles. GT’s commitment to raw, organic ingredients and probiotic benefits has positioned the brand as a leader in the functional beverage space.

6. Zevia

Zevia plays a vital role in the stevia-sweetened soda market, offering a healthier alternative to traditional soft drinks. As a leader in the natural zero-calorie soda category, Zevia has shown that it’s possible to enjoy familiar soda flavors without the sugar crash.

Their Cola and Ginger Root Beer have won over consumers seeking guilt-free alternatives to conventional sodas.

7. Remedy Kombucha

Remedy has ridden the fermented tea wave to become one of the fastest-growing kombucha brands globally. By making kombucha accessible and delicious, Remedy expanded the market for this probiotic-rich beverage. 

Flavors like Raspberry Lemonade and Ginger Lemon are very popular.

8. Ghia

A relative newcomer in the non-alcoholic drink space, Ghia has quickly made a name for itself with its sophisticated alternative to evening cocktails. Rapidly growing in the premium non-alcoholic category, Ghia’s Non-Alcoholic Apéritif offers a complex, bitter flavor profile reminiscent of traditional aperitifs.

This unique offering caters to those seeking a more adult, refined, non-alcoholic option, proving that abstaining from alcohol doesn’t mean sacrificing the sophistication many associated with cocktails.

9. Athletic Brewing Company

Leading the charge in non-alcoholic craft beer, Athletic Brewing has won over even the most discerning beer enthusiasts. As the largest non-alcoholic craft brewery in the US, Athletic Brewing offers full-flavored craft beers without the alcohol. 

Their Run Wild IPA and Upside Dawn Golden Ale have shown that it’s possible to create compelling non-alcoholic versions of beloved beer styles. Athletic Brewing’s success indicates a growing market for craft non-alcoholic options that don’t compromise on taste or complexity.

10. Curious Elixirs

Curious Elixirs is making waves by crafting booze-free cocktails in a bottle, bringing bar-quality drinks to your home. With a growing presence in the ready-to-drink non-alcoholic cocktail market, Curious Elixirs offers complex, layered flavors mimicking classic cocktails. 

Their Curious No. 1 (inspired by a Pomegranate Negroni) and Curious No. 2 (a take on a Spicy Margarita) showcase the potential for non-alcoholic beverages to capture the essence of traditional cocktails. Curious Elixirs’ innovation speaks to a desire for convenient, sophisticated, non-alcoholic options.

The Importance of Non-Alcoholic Beverages

The rise of non-alcoholic beverages isn’t just a boon for those looking for alternatives to alcoholic drinks. It’s also a win for everyone’s health. These drinks often boast lower calories, no hangovers, little to no sugar, and, in many cases, added health benefits like probiotics or vitamins.

As consumers become more health-conscious, the shift towards non-alcoholic options has accelerated, with many people embracing “sober curious” lifestyles.

This trend has had a significant impact on the beverage industry. While alcoholic beverage sales have remained relatively flat in recent years, the non-alcoholic sector has seen impressive growth, showing that there is a large market for non-alcoholic beverages that remains largely untapped.

Enjoy the Best Non-Alcoholic Beverages

The non-alcoholic beverage landscape has never been more exciting or diverse. From kombucha pioneers like GT’s Living Foods to innovative startups like Seedlip and Ghia, companies are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in a glass – no alcohol required.

Non-alcoholic beverages are more than just a fad. They represent a shift in how we think about drinking and socializing. Whether you’re in recovery, cutting back on alcohol, or simply looking for new flavors to explore, there’s a whole world of delicious, sophisticated, non-alcoholic options waiting for you.

So next time you’re out with friends or relaxing at home, why not raise a glass of something new? Your taste buds – and your health – will thank you. Cheers to good times and great drinks; no hangover is required!

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a global community of individuals who have struggled with alcohol addiction. Founded in 1935, AA has helped millions of people achieve and maintain sobriety through its peer-based recovery program. AA’s principles come from their famous Twelve Step Program. In combination with the steps, the principles offer a guide for personal growth and sustained sobriety that goes beyond abstinence.

Let’s explore the twelve principles and how each helps us build habits that lead to a fulfilling life.

The History of the 12 Principles

The twelve principles of AA evolved from the original Twelve Steps, developed by AA founders Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob Smith in the 1930s. The steps were first published in the book “Alcoholics Anonymous: The Story of How More Than One Hundred Men Have Recovered from Alcoholism” in 1939, commonly known as “The Big Book.”

As the program gained traction and more people engaged with the 12 steps, members began to recognize underlying themes within each step. This led to the identification of 12 corresponding principles. These principles summarize the most important elements of each step into a core value or concept that can be applied more broadly in daily life.

Developing these principles was not a formal process but something that happened naturally in the AA community. Each principle represents the wisdom and experience of many individuals who have worked through the 12 steps and found ways to apply their teachings in everyday life.

Each Principle Explained

Principle 1: Acceptance

“We admitted we were powerless over alcohol – that our lives had become unmanageable.”

Acceptance is the foundation of recovery in AA. It involves recognizing the reality of addiction and the need for change. 

In practice, acceptance might involve:

• Admitting to yourself and others that alcohol has become a problem.
• Recognizing the negative impacts of drinking on various aspects of life.
• Letting go of the illusion of control over alcohol consumption.

Acceptance means acknowledging powerlessness over alcohol and the unmanageability of life with addiction. It’s about moving past denial and facing the truth of the situation. This principle encourages individuals to stop fighting their addiction and instead accept it as a reality that needs to be addressed.

Principle 2: Hope

“Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.”

Hope is the belief that recovery is possible and that a better life awaits beyond addiction. 

Practicing hope in recovery might include:

• Listening to success stories of others in recovery.
• Setting positive goals for the future.
• Cultivating a mindset that focuses on possibilities rather than limitations.

This principle instills optimism and the courage to pursue a future free from alcohol dependence. It motivates me to begin and continue the recovery journey, even when facing challenges.

Principle 3: Faith

“Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him.”

Faith in AA doesn’t necessarily mean religious belief. It’s about trusting in a power greater than ourselves, which can be interpreted as a higher power, the AA program itself, or the knowledge the group has gained over time. 

Ways to cultivate faith in recovery might include:

• Exploring spiritual or philosophical beliefs.
• Trusting in the AA program and its principles.
• Relying on the support and wisdom of the recovery community.

Faith involves surrendering control and trusting in something beyond yourself for guidance and strength. It’s about finding a source of support and direction to help navigate the recovery challenges.

Principle 4: Courage

“Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.”

Courage is essential for facing fears, confronting past behaviors, and taking steps toward recovery. 

Examples of courage in recovery include:

• Facing painful memories or emotions without turning to alcohol.
• Being honest about past mistakes and their consequences.
• Trying new, sober ways of dealing with stress and social situations.

Courage involves being willing to change and face life’s challenges without relying on alcohol. It requires bravery to look at yourself honestly and make complex changes.

Principle 5: Honesty

“Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.”

Honesty is crucial in recovery. It means being truthful with yourself and others about the nature and extent of your addiction, as well as past actions and current struggles. 

Practicing honesty in recovery might involve:

• Sharing openly in AA meetings about challenges and successes.
• Being truthful with loved ones about one’s addiction and recovery journey.
• Acknowledging mistakes and taking responsibility for actions.

Honesty counters the denial and secrecy that often accompany addiction and helps you become more transparent and authentic in all areas of life.

Principle 6: Willingness

“We are entirely ready to have God remove all these character defects.”

Willingness is the openness to change and try new approaches. It involves being receptive to guidance and letting go of old habits and thought patterns.  

Examples of willingness in action include:

• Being open to suggestions from sponsors or counselors.
• Trying new recovery tools or techniques, even if you’re initially skeptical.
• Being ready to change long-standing behaviors or attitudes.

Willingness is about being open-minded and flexible in recovery. It means being ready to do whatever it takes to maintain sobriety and grow as a person.

Principle 7: Humility

“Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings.”

Humility means recognizing our limitations and the need for help. It involves setting aside pride and ego to accept support from others and a higher power.  

Ways to practice humility in recovery include:

• Asking for help when needed.
• Listening to and considering others’ perspectives.
• Recognizing that recovery is a lifelong journey of growth.

Humility is about having a realistic view of yourself and acknowledging strengths and weaknesses as you navigate recovery.

Principle 8: Love

“Made a list of all persons we had harmed and became willing to make amends to them all.”

Love in AA encompasses compassion for ourselves and others. It involves developing empathy, forgiveness, and a sense of connection with fellow recovering individuals and the broader community. 

Practicing love in recovery might include:

• Showing compassion to others struggling with addiction.
• Forgiving oneself and others for past hurts.
• Building and nurturing healthy relationships.

Love in recovery is about healing relationships and developing a more compassionate approach to life, including self-love and love for others.

Principle 9: Responsibility

“Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.”

Responsibility is about taking accountability for one’s actions, both past and present. It involves making amends where possible and committing to more ethical and considerate behavior. 

Examples of practicing responsibility in recovery include:

• Making amends to those harmed by past actions.
• Following through on commitments in recovery and daily life.
• Taking care of physical and mental health.

Taking responsibility means owning our choices and consequences rather than blaming others or circumstances. It’s about being proactive in one’s recovery and life.

Principle 10: Discipline

“Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it.”

Discipline is the commitment to maintaining sobriety through consistent effort. It involves developing healthy habits, attending meetings regularly, and following through on recovery-related tasks. 

Ways to practice discipline in recovery might include:

• Maintaining a regular schedule of AA meetings.
• Consistently working with a sponsor or recovery coach.
• Developing and sticking to healthy daily routines over long periods.

Discipline in recovery means staying vigilant and committed to the recovery process, even when challenging or inconvenient.

Principle 11: Awareness

“Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.”

Awareness is about staying mindful of our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It involves ongoing self-reflection and maintaining a conscious connection with our higher power or source of strength. 

Practicing awareness in recovery might involve:

• Regular meditation or mindfulness practices.
• Journaling about thoughts and feelings.
• Paying attention to triggers and warning signs of potential relapse.

Awareness in recovery means staying present and attuned to our feelings and surroundings, constantly seeking to understand ourselves better and using this knowledge in our path to recovery.

Principle 12: Service

“Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to alcoholics and to practice these principles in all our affairs.”

Service is a core AA value. It involves giving back to the community by supporting other recovering individuals and, whenever appropriate, carrying a message of hope to those living with addiction. 

Examples of service in recovery include:

• Volunteering at AA meetings or recovery events.
• Becoming a sponsor to newcomers in the program.
• Sharing our recovery story in cases where it may inspire others.

Service in recovery is about seeking appropriate and non-intrusive ways to help others. It’s a way of finding purpose and reinforcing our own recovery through supporting others.

The 12 Principles of AA Support Your Recovery

The 12 principles of AA provide a guide for personal growth and recovery. They offer a unique approach to healing that addresses not just sobriety but the development of a new way of living focused on progress and purpose.

Through these principles, individuals in recovery can develop the tools and mindset necessary to maintain sobriety, improve their relationships, and lead more fulfilling lives.

If you or anyone you know takes alcohol excessively, we encourage you to seek help through your healthcare providers and explore peer support groups like AA as an ongoing source of motivation, coping skills, and accountability.

The holiday season can be challenging for those on the path to sobriety. Thanksgiving, in particular, often revolves around communal drinking, making it a potential minefield for those avoiding alcohol. Enter Friendsgiving – a modern twist on the traditional holiday gathering tailored to fit your sober lifestyle.

A Supportive Twist on Traditional Celebrations

Gather your friends who support your sobriety journey or are on a similar path themselves, and celebrate with a sumptuous feast, alcohol-free mocktails, and engaging activities. Here are some tips to make your sober Friendsgiving a memorable one.

1. Choose the Right Venue

The venue sets the stage for your gathering, influencing the overall vibe and comfort level. Whether it’s your home, a friend’s place, or even an outdoor setting, make sure it’s a space where everyone can feel relaxed and at ease. An outdoor venue can offer a tranquil, natural atmosphere, while a home setting provides warmth and familiarity.

At the same time, it’s crucial to avoid venues that could be triggering for those in recovery. Bars, restaurants focusing on alcohol, or even family homes where drinking was once a norm can evoke memories or temptations that could be counterproductive to the event’s purpose.

2. Invite the Right People

The beauty of hosting your own Friendsgiving is the freedom to choose your company. Invite friends who support your sobriety journey or who are navigating their own. This could include friends from rehab or support groups like AA, ensuring a supportive environment for everyone involved.

3. Set the Ground Rules

Once your guest list is finalized, it’s crucial to communicate the event’s sober nature. Make it clear that the gathering will be free of alcohol and substances. Encourage everyone, even those not in recovery, to respect this by not questioning or commenting on others’ choices to abstain. The goal is to foster a supportive, judgment-free zone.

4. Organize Sober Activities and Games

A successful Friendsgiving isn’t just about the food and drinks; it’s also about enjoyment and bonding. Consider organizing a pumpkin decorating contest to embrace the fall spirit. Give guests small pumpkins, paint, markers, and stickers, and let their creativity run wild. Other group activities could include Thanksgiving-themed trivia, Pictionary, or charades.

5. Get Creative with Mocktails 

Mocktails can be a delightful addition to your event, but ensuring they don’t become a trigger is essential. Avoid using mocktail recipes that closely mimic the taste or presentation of popular alcoholic drinks.

Instead, focus on unique, flavorful combinations that stand on their own. For those who might find mocktails triggering, offer a variety of herbal teas, flavored waters, or fresh fruit juices as alternatives. 

6. Foster a Gratitude-Focused Atmosphere

Take some time during the gathering to focus on gratitude. A “Gratitude Jar” can be a heartfelt activity – guests write down what they’re thankful for and place the notes in a jar. At the end of the evening, read the notes aloud to share in the collective gratitude and reflection.

7. Have a Support Plan in Place

Even in a sober environment, the holidays can bring up emotions that may be challenging for some. Have a quiet space where people can step away if they need a moment to themselves. Also, consider having a list of support resources or contacts for anyone needing extra help during the event.

Benefits of Sober Friendsgiving

Hosting or attending a sober Friendsgiving offers numerous advantages:

• Less Exposure to Triggers: In a sober setting, you’re less likely to face uncomfortable questions or temptations related to drinking.
• A Clear Mind During the Holidays: Without the distractions of alcohol, you can fully engage in meaningful conversations and activities.
• Create Lasting Memories: A sober Friendsgiving allows you to build new, positive memories reinforcing your sobriety commitment.
• Strengthen Your Sobriety: Successfully navigating a sober holiday gathering boosts your confidence and resolve to maintain your sobriety.
• Deepening Friendships: A sober environment allows for more genuine connections, deepening friendships that can be crucial support networks in your sobriety journey.
• Personal Growth: Taking the initiative to host a sober event can be empowering, giving you a sense of accomplishment and control over your social life.

The Bottom Line

Hosting or attending a sober Friendsgiving is about more than just avoiding alcohol; it’s about creating a safe, supportive environment that enriches your life and strengthens your journey to sobriety. If you find the holidays challenging, remember that support is available. You’re not alone, and resources are at hand to help you maintain your sobriety and find joy in the season.

Energy drinks are beverages with high levels of stimulant substances (generally sugar, caffeine, and herbal extracts) marketed as a quick solution to increase mental awareness and physical performance. Red Bull, Monster, and Bang are some of the most popular energy drinks.

Some people enjoy drinking energy drinks and alcohol simultaneously to party longer. As a depressant, alcohol tends to slow you down after enough drinks, leading some to take energy drinks to counteract the effects of alcohol.

As we will see, this combination is problematic and may lead to many undesirable side effects. 

The Side Effects of Mixing Energy Drinks and Alcohol

One of the main risks associated with mixing energy drinks and alcohol is the combination of a depressant (alcohol) with a stimulant (the energy drink).

Mixing depressants and stimulants can be risky because the results are unpredictable, often leading to both substances masking each other’s effects. When this happens, it’s easy to believe they’re not affecting you, increasing the likelihood of consuming more of both beverages and suffering more severe side effects from the combination.

Physical Side Effects

The physical side effects of mixing energy drinks and alcohol include the following:

• Alcohol-related injuries. Some evidence suggests that mixing alcohol and energy drinks increases the chances of suffering alcohol-related injuries, such as car wrecks, falls, drownings, and burns.
• Increased systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Primarily caused by excessive energy drink consumption. Some energy drinks also contain high amounts of sodium, increasing blood pressure.
• Irregular heartbeat. Both drinks may cause irregular heartbeat, making them riskier in combination. This is especially true for people naturally vulnerable to the condition.
• Dehydration. Both drinks make you want to pee, potentially dehydrating you if you pee too much.
• Physical incoordination. Being uncoordinated increases the risk of falling and other alcohol-related injuries.

Cognitive and Behavioral Side Effects

Combining these drinks may also lead to some cognitive and behavioral side effects, such as:

• A stronger desire to drink, as energy drinks, may increase the urge to drink more. The more you drink, the higher the chances of suffering alcohol’s side effects, such as alcohol poisoning.
• Decreased perceived intoxication or being “wide-awake drunk.” Some people may feel like they’re less intoxicated than they are, leading them to drink more alcohol. 
• Impaired driving skills, heightening the risk of car accidents.
• Risky sexual behavior from alcohol intoxication, such as unprotected sex.
• Reduced self-control and ability to anticipate the consequences of your actions.

It’s also important to point out that the caffeine in energy drinks doesn’t affect alcohol metabolism.

Long-term Health Side Effects

Consistently mixing these drinks may lead to long-term consequences from individual and combined side effects, such as:

• Chronically elevated blood pressure increases the risk of strokes, heart attacks, and heart diseases.
• Sleep pattern alterations, such as insomnia. Long-term disordered sleeping may also lead to heart disease.
• Chronically high triglycerides from excessive sugar consumption increase the risk of plaque forming in your arteries.
• Gain weight from excessive caloric intake. Alcoholic beverages and energy drinks can increase caloric intake, accelerating weight gain and the potential side effects of being overweight or obese.
• Higher risk of developing alcoholism.
• Weakened immune system, caused by alcohol abuse.
• Long-term alcohol abuse causes sexual dysfunction. Additionally, women may suffer from disrupted menstrual cycles and increased pregnancy complications.

Impact on Teenagers and Young Adults

Teenagers and younger adults are generally more at risk of the side effects of mixing alcohol and energy drinks. The fruity flavors and the high-budget, attractive marketing campaigns for a younger audience make energy drinks more appealing to college-aged adults and underaged teens.

Some data shows that younger people have a preference for this combination. A 2017 survey on adolescent drug use determined that 10.6% of 8th, 10th, and 12th-grade students reported mixing alcohol with energy drinks at least once in the past year. 31.8% of young adults between 19 and 28 did the same.

These statistics are unsurprising, considering that marketing campaigns for caffeinated alcoholic beverages (CABs, premixed alcoholic-caffeinated drinks) have historically targeted the younger demographic with flashy youth-oriented graphics, often associating them with extreme sports and risk-taking behavior. 

In November 2010, however, the FDA warned seven CAB manufacturers their product could not stay in the market, and the manufacturers removed the stimulants from their drinks.

However, banning CABs from the market doesn’t change the fact that mixing alcohol and energy drinks is very easy, leaving teens and college-aged adults vulnerable to their side effects. 

Additional factors like peer pressure, inexperience, or lack of knowledge of either drink’s side effects may still make teens and younger people more vulnerable to mixing them.

Educating teens and younger adults close to you about their side effects and long-term consequences is important.

Are Energy Drinks Riskier Than Other Caffeinated Drinks Combined With Alcohol?

In addition to caffeine, many energy drinks contain other ingredients like sugar, ginseng, guarana, and B vitamins. Ginseng, for example, may cause dizziness, sluggishness, drowsiness, and shortness of breath when combined with alcohol. 

Mixing alcohol with energy drinks may expose you to the side effects of additional ingredients combined with alcohol (on top of caffeine), depending on the concentration.

How to Minimize Risks?

The best way to mitigate the combined risks of energy drinks and alcohol is not to combine them. Still, you may like the taste or how the caffeine-alcohol combination makes you feel. In those cases, moderation is the name of the game. 

Try following these recommendations if you plan to combine energy drinks and alcohol:

• If you like the stimulant effect when you drink alcohol, try to drink a caffeinated drink a few hours before you start consuming alcohol. Even a cup of coffee hours earlier helps you stay more “awake” while drinking.
• Try to avoid energy drinks with high sugar content. Sugary drinks are addictive and may lead you to drinking higher quantities in short periods.
• Drink water between alcoholic or energy drinks. It helps you rehydrate and lessens tomorrow’s hangover.
• Drink only with people you trust.
• Have a plan for returning home that doesn’t include driving.
• If going out with friends, plan where you’re going and stick to that plan. It’ll help control your drinking.

Ultimately, the best solution is not mixing them since mixing energy drinks with alcohol is riskier than only drinking alcohol. But if you combine them, follow the advice above and listen to your body. 

When you start to feel too drunk, uncoordinated, or any other side effects of this combo, stop mixing them and rehydrate.

If you or anyone close to you frequently mixes alcohol with energy drinks and suffers consistent side effects, they would likely benefit from talking to a professional and developing coping skills. It’s always possible to overcome substance abuse and dependence with the right support system.

There are quite a few mantras widely used by AA’ers—many you have very likely heard before—like “Easy does it”, “Keep it simple”, or “One day at a time”. But they’re more than just catchy phrases that roll off the tongue. These Alcoholics Anonymous mantras serve as reminders of the AA’s guiding principles and are intentionally short and simple so that they’re easy to recall when someone encounters difficult moments in their addiction recovery process. Another one of these popular mantras is “90 in 90” (also sometimes referred to as “90 and 90”).

What does 90 in 90 mean?

The phrase “90 in 90” applies to someone who is just starting out their recovery journey. It means attending 90 Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meetings in 90 consecutive days, which is highly recommended for beginners newly in recovery. The principle originates from the belief that sustained engagement in recovery-oriented activities is essential for achieving lasting sobriety. 

4 Essential Benefits of 90 in 90

The 90 in 90 isn’t an easy undertaking, and requires commitment, commitment, and a good amount of planning, to accomplish. Those who step up to the challenge, however, will find their efforts well rewarded. 

Attending 90 meetings in 90 days establishes a strong foundation for individuals to develop and maintain abstinence from drugs or alcohol. Regular attendance at support group meetings, such as AA or NA, fosters a sense of community, accountability, and support, which have been scientifically proven to be critical for addiction recovery.

Enhanced Support System

The beginning of addiction recovery is arguably the hardest which is what makes social support in these early stages so invaluable. “90 in 90” promotes attending daily meetings, which will inevitably lead to individuals building a robust support network of other members. Support networks offer encouragement, guidance, and empathy which can go a long way towards providing motivation to stay sober. This is also important as addiction can be a highly isolating time in a person’s life and frequent social gatherings can also help to bring those walls back down. 

Structure and Routine

To accomplish 90 meetings in 90 days, a person must establish a structured routine and plan out their days in advance. Such future-oriented thinking is great for addiction recovery, promoting stability and reducing the likelihood of relapse.

Increased Accountability

Goals help keep individuals accountable for their actions and mindful of the final payoff. Having the goal of achieving 90 in 90 in mind will encourage them to remain dedicated and focused on staying sober.

Exposure to Diverse Perspectives

Alcoholics Anonymous brings together people from all sorts of backgrounds. Frequently attending meetings will also quickly expose individuals to a wide range of experiences, insights, and coping strategies, expanding their understanding of addiction and recovery. 

Additionally, attending meetings daily in early recovery will allow the individual to quickly experience different types of meetings (open, closed, step study, speaker meetings), which will also offer a diverse range of perspectives and recovery approaches.

This can be an illuminating expression to someone just starting out in recovery who might think that they are alone in their experiences and struggles. Remain open to different perspectives and approaches, allowing for personal growth and transformation throughout the recovery process.

How to attend 90 meetings in 90 days (and get the most out of it)

A meeting every day for 90 days is not an easy challenge, but it’s doable if you have the right mindset and make preparations in advance. Still, be flexible and compassionate with yourself during the process. 

Tackle the logistics

First and foremost, you’ll need to create a schedule for yourself. This means planning out which meetings you’ll attend each day and considering the different locations and start times. Do you have private transportation? If not, you’ll need to consider public transit schedules or coordinate rides in advance. Consider other potential obstacles like work schedules or child care that could impede your ability to attend meetings.

Be an active participant

Engage actively in meetings by sharing experiences, listening attentively, and seeking advice or feedback when needed. Seek connections with other members outside of meetings, fostering supportive relationships and building a sober social network.

Celebrate milestones

Acknowledge and celebrate milestones along your journey. AA makes this easy with physical tokens and social acknowledgment, especially at the early stages. However, don’t forget to celebrate outside of the recovery community in a way that’s meaningful to you.

What if 90 in 90 just isn’t feasible for me?

Spoiler: You’ll still experience major benefits even if you don’t attend 90 consecutive AA meetings! It’s more about the intention of wanting to do better for yourself and giving yourself the resources and support you need to succeed in achieving sobriety. As the saying goes, shoot for the moon because even if you don’t succeed, you land among the stars. Begin your journey today and find an AA meeting near you. 

In Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), the last of the Twelve Traditions uses the phrase “Principles before personalities.” If you, like many other AA members, are stumped by what that means or how to apply it in your everyday life, keep reading. 

What Does “Principles Before Personalities” Mean, and Where Does the Phrase Come From?

The phrase comes from the twelfth principle of AA, as outlined in the Twelve Traditions. It states: “Anonymity is the spiritual foundation of all our traditions, ever reminding us to place principles before personalities.” 

It refers to the idea that the guiding principles of the program should take precedence over individual personalities or personal preferences. It emphasizes the importance of focusing on the principles and values that are central to recovery rather than getting caught up in personal conflicts, egos, or individual differences.

This principle, as a whole, highlights the significance of maintaining anonymity as a means to protect the unity and integrity of the fellowship. It encourages members to refrain from seeking personal recognition or acclaim, as well as respecting the anonymity of others to create an environment conducive to open sharing and recovery.

What are AA principles?

The Twelve Principles of Alcoholics Anonymous are a set of guiding values and concepts that form the foundation of the program. These principles are outlined in The Big Book and correlate with each of the organization’s 12 Steps. 

Their purpose is to serve as a framework for recovery and personal growth. The principles of AA are: 

1. Honesty
2. Hope
3. Surrender
4. Courage
5. Integrity
6. Willingness
7. Humility
8. Love
9. Responsibility
10. Discipline
11. Awareness
12. Service

Together, these principles provide a roadmap for recovery and personal transformation through self-reflection, moral growth, and the development of healthier relationships with oneself and others.

Examples of When ‘Principles Before Personalities’ Might Apply

The phrase can be applied to various situations both within and outside of the Alcoholics Anonymous community. Here are a few examples of when this saying would be helpful within the organization. 

Group Unity: In AA group settings, individual conflicts or disagreements may arise. “Principles before personalities” reminds members to focus on the common purpose of recovery and adhere to the principles of honesty, humility, and willingness rather than allowing personal conflicts to disrupt the group’s unity.

Service Work: AA encourages its members to work to support the fellowship and help others in recovery. The phrase reminds individuals to carry out their service work without seeking personal recognition or power but rather to prioritize the principles of the program in their actions and share the community with others.

Public Outreach: When representing AA to the public, the principal reminds members to emphasize the principles of the program rather than focusing on individual stories or personal achievements. By doing so, the focus remains on the message of recovery rather than on personal identities.

Sponsorship: In the sponsor-sponsee relationship, this phrase reminds both parties to prioritize the principles of the program over personal preferences or biases. Sponsors should guide their sponsees based on the principles and steps of AA rather than imposing their personal beliefs or agendas.

This phrase is just as helpful when it comes to dealing with the ‘outside world’ too! 

Workplace Environment: Professional settings are not immune to conflict either. Prioritizing principles over personalities means focusing on the core values and ethical standards of the organization rather than personal differences or conflicts. It encourages individuals to find common ground and work towards the greater goals of the company or team.

Political Discourse: Political discussions and debates can quickly become heated. The phrase reminds participants to focus on the principles and values underlying their positions rather than attacking or belittling each other. By engaging in respectful and principled discourse, individuals can foster constructive dialogue and find common ground for effective problem-solving.

Community Organizations: When involved in community organizations or volunteer work, individuals may encounter differences in opinions, personal styles, or approaches. By emphasizing principles over personalities, the focus remains on the organization’s mission and goals, allowing individuals to work together effectively and create positive change.

Managing Relationships: Family dynamics can be tricky to navigate due to differences in personalities, opinions, or lifestyles. Prioritizing principles means focusing on shared values such as love, respect, and understanding and finding ways to navigate differences while maintaining healthy relationships.

It encourages individuals to set aside personal grievances for the sake of maintaining unity and harmony and being willing to forgo protecting personal egos over temporary conflicts. By focusing on shared values and principles, relationships can be strengthened, and conflicts can be resolved more effectively.

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Want to learn more about the Twelve Principles of AA or other Alcoholics Anonymous texts? Find your local AA chapter today.