12-step work~20 min12-step
Step 2: coming to believe
Find hope beyond willpower alone — in your own words, at your own pace. 'Not there yet' is a real answer.
Step 2 is about hope: after admitting you can't do this alone, you look for help beyond your own willpower — God, the group, nature, love, whatever it means to you. Research on how AA helps (Kelly and colleagues) found it works through several routes at once — above all new friendships that support recovery and growing confidence — and, for many people, growing spiritual practice. Openness is enough to begin.
Step work is best done with a sponsor or mentor. This is a private place to prepare — share it with them when you're ready.
Looking at the evidence
1. Where I've seen people get better who couldn't on their own
2. My 'insanity': times I expected a different result from the same thing
'Just one.' 'This time will be different.' 'I can handle it now.'
My understanding — today
3. My understanding of a power greater than myself — today
It can change over time. Some people start with the group itself, nature, love, or 'good orderly direction'.
4. Qualities I'd want in a higher power
Check any that apply
5. What my higher power is not
Many people carry an old picture — punishing, distant, disappointed in them. You don't have to keep it.
6. What gets in the way — past experiences with religion, trust, pride, fear
Where I am
7. Where I am with Step 2 today
Pick one
8. What gives me hope that it can happen for me
9. What I'm willing to try this week