Pride

What is pride?

“Pride” is a word with many definitions. The healthy pride you need is found in the delight or elation arising from an accomplishment or personal quality, a relationship, or a meaningful possession. You’ve got positive pride when you feel great about your achievements, abilities, and who you are.

Unhealthy pride is found in showy, disdainful display based on an inflated sense of self-esteem.

How can pride affect your recovery?

Healthy pride can help you gain self-respect, confidence, and healthy self-esteem. It will help you learn to love yourself again, which will help you learn to love others. All these benefits will boost your recovery.

Unhealthy pride can hold you back in recovery because it is just another expression of self-will run riot. When you are prideful because of an inflated sense of self, you are not able to practice humility, honesty, or acceptance, which are necessary building blocks in recovery.

Unhealthy pride can also keep you from asking for help and leaning on others for support. You shouldn’t have to go through recovery alone. Any time you go to a meeting you will find a room full of understanding people who have battled overconfidence, pride, and over-reliance on self-will. Talking with them will help you regain your sense of humor and belonging. You need help from others, from your Higher Power, your sponsor, and your recovery support group. Keep in close contact with these people. They will understand what you’re going through and hold you accountable to keep working on your recovery.