The practical 12 steps
Practical guidance for self-exploration.
AHA uses the steps to guide a process of self-exploration. Members are encouraged to consider how these principles may aid their own recovery.
How we use the steps
We are open-minded and trying to do something new. These steps grew out of secular recovery language and were adapted by the group for recovery from codependency.
We believe the path of recovery from codependency requires a shift from outward to inward, and from guilt, shame, and self-denial toward self-love and self-compassion. Often the greatest harm of codependency is what it does to ourselves.
Learn more about the AHA approachAdmitted we were caught in a self-destructive cycle and currently lacked the tools to stop it
Trusted that a healthy lifestyle was attainable through social support, self-improvement, and self-compassion
Made a decision to commit to a life of progress and empowerment, trusting a process of change, growth, and self-acceptance
Made a comprehensive list of our resentments, fears, and patterns of thought and behavior in our relationships with ourselves and others, evaluating our need and willingness to change
Shared our lists with a trustworthy person
Made a list of our character traits, both healthy and unhealthy
Began cultivating healthy character traits through consistent positive behavior
Determined the best way to make amends to those we had harmed, including ourselves
Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would cause harm
Practiced daily self-reflection and continued making amends to ourselves and others whenever necessary
Started meditating
Sought to retain our newfound recovery lifestyle by teaching it to those willing to learn and by surrounding ourselves with healthy people
Work the steps
Take the steps further in the workbook.
The free AHA workbook guides you through each step with reflection prompts and writing space. Use what helps and leave what does not. It is not a substitute for professional care.