It is human nature to be results-oriented. We all want to see positive results from our positive actions. If we are working towards goals, we expect that these will be worthwhile, and we measure their worth with results. This is why The Promises are so important.
The Promises originated from twelve-step programs and consist of a list of, well, promises, that are made if one continues on the path of sobriety. Much of the wording in the twelve-step version is transferrable to a broader population. If you continue on your healing journey, you will begin to witness positive results.
I have modified these slightly to reflect recovery from trauma. It is important to keep these handy at all times and reference them at different points in your journey, so you are encouraged to keep moving forward. Eventually, you will realize you have attained each and will continue to so long as you keep pushing yourself in a positive direction, one day at a time.
Trauma Recovery Promises:
Promise 1: We are going to know a newfound freedom and a new happiness.
Promise 2: We will not regret the past nor wish to shut the door on it.
Promise 3: We will comprehend the word serenity.
Promise 4: We will know peace.
Promise 5: No matter what we’ve endured, we will see how our experience can benefit others.
Promise 6: That feeling of uselessness and self-pity will disappear.
Promise 7: We will gain interest in our fellows and realize we are not alone.
Promise 8: Self-seeking will slip away.
Promise 9: Our whole attitude and outlook upon life will change.
Promise 10: Fear of people and of economic insecurity will leave us.
Promise 11: We will intuitively know how to handle situations which used to baffle us.
Promise 12: We will suddenly realize that God is doing for us what we could not do for ourselves.