alcoholics anonymous step 3 worksheet

3 min read 23-11-2024

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength, and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The 12 steps are a crucial part of the AA program, and Step 3, "Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him," is often a pivotal point in the recovery journey. This article provides a comprehensive guide to understanding and working through an AA Step 3 worksheet, helping you navigate this important step.

Understanding AA Step 3: Turning Your Will and Your Life Over

Step 3 in the AA program isn't about blind faith or relinquishing personal responsibility. It's about acknowledging a power greater than yourself and surrendering control where you've previously struggled. This often involves admitting powerlessness over alcohol and the willingness to seek help beyond your own abilities. Many find comfort and strength in a Higher Power, defined differently by each individual.

This surrender isn't a one-time event, but a continuous process of letting go of the need to control everything. It's about trusting in something larger than yourself to guide your actions and support your recovery. Many recovering alcoholics find that this process releases a great burden and allows them to live more authentically.

What is a Higher Power?

The concept of a Higher Power in AA is incredibly personal. It’s not necessarily tied to a specific religion. Your Higher Power can be:

God: As understood through traditional religious beliefs.
A Higher Power: A more general concept of a force greater than oneself.
Nature: The beauty and power of the natural world.
The Group: The collective strength and support of the AA fellowship.
A Spiritual Force: A feeling or understanding of something larger than oneself.

The key is to identify something you believe in, something that offers hope, guidance, and a sense of connection that is larger than your own will.

Using an AA Step 3 Worksheet: A Practical Approach

An AA Step 3 worksheet can be a valuable tool to guide you through this process. While there isn’t a standard, universally adopted worksheet, many variations exist. The purpose of a worksheet is to help you reflect, clarify your understanding of Step 3, and document your progress.

Common Elements of a Step 3 Worksheet:

Understanding your Higher Power: This section prompts you to define your Higher Power. What does it mean to you? How do you experience its presence?
Identifying areas of control: What aspects of your life have you tried to control through alcohol or other means? What are the consequences of this control?
Surrendering control: How can you begin to surrender these areas of control to your Higher Power? What steps can you take to actively release this control?
Prayer and Meditation: Many find that prayer and meditation help them connect with their Higher Power. This section allows for reflection and journaling on this practice.
Obstacles and Challenges: What obstacles do you anticipate in surrendering your will? How can you address these challenges?
Daily Practice: This section encourages daily reflection and a commitment to actively living in accordance with your decision to turn your will and life over to your Higher Power.

Step-by-Step Guide to Completing a Step 3 Worksheet:

Define your Higher Power: Begin by writing down your understanding of your Higher Power. Be honest and specific. Don't worry about finding the “perfect” definition.
Identify areas of control: List areas of your life where you've attempted to control outcomes through your own will.
Acknowledge your powerlessness: Reflect on how your attempts to control these areas have negatively affected your life.
Commit to surrender: Write down your commitment to surrender these areas of control to your Higher Power. Be explicit about the steps you'll take.
Develop a plan: Create a plan to help you practice daily surrender. This might include prayer, meditation, attending AA meetings, or seeking guidance from a sponsor.
Journal your progress: Regularly write about your experience working through Step 3. Note your successes, challenges, and insights.

Maintaining Your Commitment: Beyond the Worksheet

The Step 3 worksheet is just a tool. The true work lies in consistent application. Remember that this is a process, not a destination. There will be challenges and setbacks. Lean on your Higher Power, your sponsor, and your AA community for support during these times.

Continuing to actively work the steps, attending meetings, and engaging with the fellowship are crucial aspects of maintaining your commitment to Step 3 and to long-term sobriety. Remember, you are not alone in this journey.

Disclaimer: This article provides information about the Alcoholics Anonymous Step 3 and is not a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice. If you are struggling with alcoholism, please seek help from a qualified healthcare professional or contact Alcoholics Anonymous directly.