Commitment vs. Attachment in Interventions
Before going into an intervention, consider the distinction between commitment and attachment.
Commitment to an idea refers to the steadfast belief in the value or importance of that idea, and a willingness to work towards its realization, regardless of any obstacles or setbacks that may arise. In other words, commitment to an idea is about staying true to what you believe in and being willing to put in the effort and dedication required to make it a reality. This can involve taking risks, making sacrifices, and persevering through challenges in order to achieve your goal.
Attachment to an outcome, on the other hand, refers to a strong desire or need for a particular result or outcome. This can involve an emotional attachment to the desired outcome, as well as a feeling of attachment to the idea of achieving it. In contrast to commitment, attachment to an outcome can sometimes lead to a lack of flexibility and an inability to adapt to changing circumstances. For example, if someone is attached to the idea of achieving a specific outcome, they may be unwilling to consider alternative options or change their approach, even if doing so could lead to a better result.
If we walk into an intervention attached to the idea that our loved one is going to be receptive, and will seek treatment by the end of the meeting, we may end up very frustrated. We also may become blind to potential solutions to our real problem: the disease of addiction.
If we walk into an intervention committed to the idea of a healthy family (of choice or origin) that is free from addiction, we get more options. In addiction, treatment is one component of reaching that goal, but not the only component.
It’s also important for our loved one to see that commitment. The outcome of going to treatment does not make a person clean and sober: a commitment to the idea of recovery does. When we go into an intervention attached to rehab, but not committed to recovery, we are just forcing our loved one to jump through an expensive hoop.
Think of it this way – what would you rather have at the end of an intervention? A loved one committed to the idea of recovery? Or a person going to rehab to get their family off their back? In truth, we cannot usually make anybody do anything they don’t want to do. But we can live purposeful lives dedicated to goals and ideas. When we are, we radiate them, and can easily speak towards that purpose.
Attachments to outcomes, especially for others, can often be repulsive. Our unwavering dedication to ideas is contagious.
