AHA is not strictly a steps based group. As we are open-minded and trying to do something new, the steps are somewhat optional and intended to roughly guide a process of self-exploration to aid individuals in their recovery. Members are encouraged to review them and consider how they might apply these principles to aid them in their journey. The steps originated from the steps written by Jeffrey Munn in his book Staying Sober without God. From there, the group modified the steps to better suit our vision for the best path to recovery from codependency. We recognized that what works for alcoholism and drug addiction does not necessarily work for codependency. We believe that the path to recovery from codependency requires a shift of focus from outward to inward and from guilt, shame and self-denial toward self-love and self-compassion. We believe that the greatest victim of our codependency is not others, but ourselves, and that we ourselves are the people suffering most from our codependency.
1.Admitted we were caught in a self-destructive cycle and currently lacked the tools to stop it
2.Trusted that a healthy lifestyle was attainable through social support, self-improvement, and self-compassion
3.Made a decision to commit to a life of progress and empowerment, trusting a process of change, growth, and self-acceptance
4.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
5.Shared our lists with a trustworthy person
6.Made a list of our character traits, both healthy and unhealthy
7.Began cultivating healthy character traits through consistent positive behavior
8.Determined the best way to make amends to those we had harmed including ourselves
9.Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would cause harm
10.Practiced daily self-reflection and continued making amends to ourselves and others whenever necessary
11.Started meditating
12.Sought to retain our newfound recovery lifestyle by teaching it to those willing to learn and by surrounding ourselves with healthy people