"We admitted we were powerless over alcohol—that our lives had become unmanageable."
The foundation of recovery begins with honest acknowledgment of powerlessness and the unmanageability that addiction brings to our lives.
"Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity."
Opening our minds to the possibility of spiritual help, whether through God, the group, or any higher power that resonates with us.
"Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood God."
The fundamental choice to surrender self-will and trust in something greater than ourselves to guide our recovery.
"Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves."
An honest examination of our character, actions, and motivations—both positive and negative—to understand ourselves deeply.
"Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs."
Breaking the isolation of shame through honest confession, creating space for healing and authentic connection.
"Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character."
Developing the willingness to let go of the character flaws that have caused harm to ourselves and others.
"Humbly asked God to remove our shortcomings."
The practice of humility in asking for help with our character defects, recognizing we cannot change ourselves through willpower alone.
"Made a list of all persons we had harmed, and became willing to make amends to them all."
Honestly acknowledging the people we've hurt and developing the courage to make things right where possible.
"Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others."
Taking concrete action to repair relationships and right wrongs, while using wisdom about timing and approach.
"Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it."
Maintaining our recovery through daily self-examination and quick correction when we make mistakes.
"Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood God, praying only for knowledge of God's will for us and the power to carry that out."
Deepening our spiritual practice through regular prayer and meditation, seeking guidance rather than personal desires.
"Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to alcoholics, and to practice these principles in all our affairs."
Sharing our experience, strength, and hope with others while applying spiritual principles to every area of our lives.