Steering Clear of False Friends: Five People Who Might Trip Up Your Recovery

When we’re working hard on recovery and building a real connection with God, it’s tough when people around us don’t quite get what we’re going through. Based on some thoughtful points from a recent chat between Robert Grant and Justin Franich, this article talks about the types of folks who might unintentionally (or intentionally) knock us off our path. It’s really important to know who these people are so we can keep moving forward with the right kind of support.

The Enabler: The Enabler might seem like they’re on your side, but they’re actually making it easier for you to fall back into old habits. They might shrug off serious issues or give you a nudge towards the very things you’re trying to avoid. Recognizing and setting limits with enablers is a big step in sticking to your recovery and building true connections.

The Skeptic: Skeptics are the ones who doubt you can change. They might question your efforts or the strength of your faith, making you second-guess yourself. Their lack of belief can shake your confidence, so it’s crucial to stay firm and not let their doubts disrupt your progress.

The Tempter: This person is usually from your past and knows just how to push your buttons. They don’t respect the new boundaries you’ve set and try to pull you back to old ways. Steering clear of tempters is essential for keeping your recovery and spiritual growth on track.

The Negative Influence: Ever had someone around who’s always down or in some crisis? That’s the Negative Influence. They can drag your mood down too, and before you know it, you might find yourself reaching for comfort in the wrong places. Surrounding yourself with positive people is key to staying strong and focused.

The Dismissive: The Dismissive person doesn’t take your struggles seriously. They might brush off your experiences or the steps you’re taking towards betterment. Feeling understood and supported is so important, so it’s best to find people who truly get what you’re going through.

As you work on your recovery and build a real relationship with God, being aware of the people who might throw you off course is super important. The Enabler, The Skeptic, The Tempter, The Negative Influence, and The Dismissive each bring their own challenges. By knowing who they are and how to deal with them, you can keep your focus where it needs to be. Let’s lean into relationships that are truly supportive and keep our recovery and spiritual growth strong.