Turning the negative into positive

[TheTiges]

Hey folks,

The weekend can be a hard time for a lot of people. Social events, sports games and constant adds on the telly can be triggering, and make it harder to stick to those recovery goals. That’s why we’re introducing a few new weekend activities, to help keep your mind busy and get into a positive mindset! These new activities are designed to create constructive conversations between members, help people refocus on the positives and get us all supporting each other and bringing some optimism to our weekends.

The first of these new activities is called Turning the negative into positive: reframing negative thoughts, emotions or events into positive statements.
For example:
• The traffic was really bad and I was running late to work - I got to listen to the end of my podcast
• I encountered something which was triggering , but I was able to work through it and now I know that “x” is a trigger and recognise my own capabilities/strengths
• I've had a few relapses over the years - I know I'm capable of picking myself back up and starting again

This will be running all day every Saturday, alternating fortnightly with “3 things to look forward to”.

We really want to know what you guys think of these new activities. This is designed to be a supportive space for everyone so all feedback is useful!

The new activities will be running in addition to our weekly Chatty Tuesday meetings.

We're excited to see what positives you guys have!

[TheTiges]

Hey everyone!

To start off our first new weekend activity, we have Negatives to Positives!

I'll kick things off

It's going to be raining this evening on my journey home, but we need the rain and the plants and animals will be happy!

I had to have a difficult conversation with a colleague the other day about something at work, but I handled it well and now feel more confident in my ability to mange difficult conversations.

I'd love to hear what you guys have to share!

[Printemps]

Okay everyone! Today we're turning some negatives into positives. Re-framing things can often help us keep a positive outlook, which is so important when it comes to recovery!

We're having a big family move at the moment which is a bit stressful, but we're all excited for a new start in a fresh space!

@Menz199 , @Jimap , @Jc @AlcoholicGambler91 @Squeaky Do you guys have anything you'd like to post this weekend?

I look forward to hearing from y'all!

[Jimap]

@Printemps
I have found myself wanting to spend my weekend in a dark place emotionally but I read over sections of my book about healing from loving some one who has an addiction, buying a new book, making a cake and planning some nice things to do with my children tomorrow for Mother’s Day. I still feel a bit anxious but I am in a better place than I was this morning. . Thank you for caring it means a lot.

[Printemps]

@Jimap
You should give yourself a pat on the back, it can be really difficult getting yourself out of those dark places, but it sounds like you've been able to get yourself into a more positive mindset. Even if there is still a bit of anxiety there, you've been kind to yourself and it sounds like you've done some really nice things today!

What is the book that you are reading? It sounds like it has been really useful. I hope you have a lovely mothers day with your kids!

[Jimap]

The book was called Codependent No More. Now I about to start ‘Untamed’. Co dependent No More has some great information for partners of addicts, why we are attracted to those sort of relationships, why we stay, how to help someone with addictions/not enable them and loving yourself first. and thank you some days are better than others!!

[Menz199]

Hi all
Nothing to add off the top of my head, but will be sure to add something if it comes to mind. Sounds like your going through a rough time @Jimap but please to see your working through it. Remember we're all here to support each other.

[Printemps]

Okay everyone! we're back this weekend, turning our negatives into positives!

This weekend is a busy one, as my family are moving into a new home, a little bit sad and stressful, but an exciting new change!

We're in lockdown in Victoria, but it gives me time to clean up my flat haha!

@Jimap @Anita44 @KAG @Menz199 @JinxyWolf are there somethings you guys would like to add this week?

[KAG]

Hi all happy weekend!

It’s my daughter birthday iceskating party tonight so very excited for her! And going to treat myself to a massage! Very grateful and thinking of all ViC people try and stay strong

I notice I have more cash these day so
gambling=no cash, unhappy, debts
Gamble free = more cash to enjoy on good things, pay bills and feeling happier

It’s easy to say but in reality for me it’s a hard one

I am now day 8 and feeling positive everything feels like it’s much better hope I stay like this

[Printemps]

@KAG iceskating is so fun! what a great party for your daughter! and a massage for yourself sounds like great little bit of selfcare

Having that spare cash is a great thing, begin able to get on top of bills really helps to reduce stress! Congratulations on 8 days, the positivity i'm hearing in your post is really great! You deserve to feel so proud of this past week!