There’s a lot of talk about personal inventories, and it’s essential to understand our shortcomings. However, you might not understand what to write when compiling an inventory. Let’s work through an example list to understand better our patterns, strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

A sample personal inventory list might include:

1. Behavioral Patterns: Any recurring behaviors contributing to substance use, such as lying, isolating, or procrastinating.
2. Emotional Responses: Reflect on common emotional reactions, like anger, sadness, anxiety, and triggers.
3. Relationship Dynamics: Assess the health of relationships with family, friends, and colleagues and recognize any patterns of conflict or codependency.
4. Coping Mechanisms: Identify current coping strategies for stress or emotional discomfort and evaluate their effectiveness and healthiness.
5. Values and Beliefs: Contemplate personal values and beliefs and how well current behaviors align with these.
6. Achievements and Strengths: Acknowledge successes, areas of resilience, and personal qualities that have been beneficial in recovery.
7. Areas for Improvement: Recognize aspects of character that need development, such as communication skills, emotional regulation, or self-care practices.
8. Goals for Recovery: Setting specific, achievable goals for sobriety and overall well-being.

This list is a tool for self-awareness and growth, helping to look honestly at behaviors and make meaningful changes towards a healthier, sober lifestyle. What’s on your list?

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