How To Work A 12 Step Program like AA or NA Without God.

The 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) have been a staple in the recovery community for over 80 years. These steps are a set of guiding principles that help individuals struggling with alcohol addiction overcome their disease and lead a more fulfilling and sober life.

One of the key components of the 12 Steps is a belief in a higher power, often referred to as God. However, not everyone who struggles with alcohol addiction believes in God, and that can make it difficult to fully commit to the 12 Steps.

Despite this, it is possible to complete the 12 Steps without believing in God. Here are some tips for doing so:

  1. Focus on the principles, not the labels. The 12 Steps are based on certain principles, such as honesty, humility, and accountability. Rather than getting hung up on the labels used in the steps (such as “God” or “Higher Power”), focus on the principles behind them and how they can help you in your recovery.

  2. Find your own Higher Power. For some people, their Higher Power might be a higher power in the traditional sense (such as God or a higher force). For others, it might be something else that brings them comfort and strength, such as nature, the support of friends and family, or a personal passion or hobby. Whatever it is, it should be something that you can rely on and turn to for support during difficult times.

  3. Understand that the 12 Steps are a framework, not a rulebook. The 12 Steps are a framework for recovery, not a set of strict rules that must be followed to the letter. It’s okay to adapt the steps to fit your own beliefs and needs. For example, if the idea of praying to a higher power doesn’t resonate with you, you can try meditating or journaling instead.

  4. Seek support from others who share your beliefs. If you’re struggling with the idea of a higher power, it can be helpful to connect with others who are in the same boat. Many AA groups are inclusive and welcoming of people with different beliefs, and there are also alternative support groups that cater specifically to individuals who don’t believe in God. Here is a list of secular 12 step groups.

  5. Remember that the 12 Steps are just one path to recovery. The 12 Steps are a widely-used and effective way to overcome alcohol addiction, but they’re not the only way. If you find that the 12 Steps don’t work for you, there are other recovery programs and approaches that you can try. The important thing is to find what works for you and stick with it. Here are some alternative 12 Step Programs:

In conclusion, it is possible to do the 12 Steps of AA without believing in God. By focusing on the principles behind the steps, finding your own Higher Power, and adapting the steps to fit your needs, you can still reap the benefits of the program and make progress in your recovery journey.