With the new year comes resolutions. But I'm not talking about the over-commitment kind that lasts about a week. Big change often requires a process, and when you're struggling with an addiction of any kind, taking things one step at a time is key.

And since you're giving this article a chance, you're already well on your way to step one!

Here are some of the biggest obstacles to overcoming addiction, and some advice on how to approach them.

Remind Yourself That Addiction Is a Disease

Some people still believe that an addict is someone who can stop at any point. But chemically speaking, what may seem like a compulsion isn't actually a choice. And you need to rid yourself of that chemical dependency, be it phone addiction or a smoking habit, by giving your body a chance to experience life without it.

But not so fast.

When we think of habits and addiction like a disease, we can better identify the best treatment. In some cases, cold turkey is the right move. For others, cold turkey can be dangerous. Just like with any other medical condition, addiction should be approached based on the severity of the case and the best approach as prescribed by a professional.

Remember: You're Not an Addict, You Just Have an Addiction

I often find that folks with addictions will come to me with the belief that they're an addict, so they'll "always behave as such." That internalization gives you a dangerous excuse to simply "be who you are." But when you separate yourself from the habit, you'll find that the addiction is one small aspect of who you are.

When you focus on the addiction and all the things that have gone wrong in your life, you lose sight of your strong suits. Where do you really connect with human beings? What do you have to offer this world? When we escape the label of "addict," we can begin to answer those questions.

The 12 Steps are Important – But Step 1 Is Crucial

Whether a mild habit or a debilitating addiction, the 12 steps can offer useful guidance, not the least of which is the word "steps." When it comes to defeating a disease, it's all about putting one foot in front of the other – and recognizing productive steps forward.

So, the first step to this process is admitting that there's an issue. It's only when we admit that we have the condition can we proceed forward – and begin to heal.

Remind Yourself That You Have a Lot to Offer

The habit/addiction isn't all that you are. Often, it's an indication that a relationship you have with yourself is broken and needs fixing. Look at yourself—and other people suffering from addiction—as people who have a lot to offer. They really do. You really do. That's why it's so important to see this as a disease rather than a choice. Once you repair that relationship and become more whole, you're free to reach your dreams, identify your passions, and live your fullest life.

Keep in Mind: We All Have Addictions at Some Level

We live in a society that encourages addictive behaviour. Whether overeating or drinking, scrolling on our phones, glued to the TV, or feeling unable to get through the day without a cup of coffee, the vast majority of us have some sort of compulsion we struggle with. Does that mean everyone is an addict? Of course not. And that's the point.

We're much more likely to call someone addicted to opioids an "addict" – while offering more sympathy to the person on their iPhone for 16 hours a day. It's a similar disease, it's a closely related compulsion, and everyone is worth of empathy, respect, and understanding.

Remember to Always Empathize – With Yourself Too

The golden rule: treat others the way you want to be treated. For people who don't have a serious addiction, it can be hard for them to sympathize or empathize the people who do. If you're struggling with an addiction, remember that about others and yourself. Everyone is struggling with something. Sometimes it's severe, sometimes it's mild. But we all have a compulsion we're working on. Don't compare yourself to others, but do remember to treat yourself like you'd want others to treat you.

See an Addiction Specialist

You (hopefully) wouldn't try to treat cancer alone at home. With that in mind, seek professional help for your addiction. Even if it's just a counseling session, you'll get invaluable advice on how to handle your habit specific to your situation.

For a free and confidential consultation, get in touch with me today.

The Biggest Challenges to Breaking an Addiction or Habit – And How to Overcome Them