You have the power to change your behavior and replace your addiction with some that is healthy for you to be doing. The way to do this is not as difficult as one may think, following the steps however can be the hardest thing you will ever undertake. But know that you are strong enough to do it.



The first thing you have to do is admit that you have an addiction, what ever that addiction is. Shopping, painting, chewing gum, alcohol, pain medicines, gambling, pornography, etc, it doesn't matter what the addiction is, admit that you have it.

Write it on a piece of paper ?I am addicted to?,? you fill in the blank. Spend a few moments looking at that piece of paper, think about your addiction, because the next step is an important one.

Now, figure out why you have that addiction. There is something that fuels that addiction, a reason as to why you do it. Is it because it makes you feel better? Your addiction allows you to escape from dealing with something in your life? Perhaps your addiction gives you power and control.

The only way to break this addiction is to figure out why you do it. It isn't because you enjoy it, though it may seem like that is why you do it. I know there is an emotional reason behind it though and so do you, it is time to figure that part out so that you can be free.

Thirdly, figuring out a healthy replacement for that addiction is key. To do this though you need to have figured out why you have your addiction. Say your addiction is alcohol, and the reason that you drink is because it gives you a way to not have to deal with a bad home situation or feelings of insecurity.

Then finding a better coping technique is what you need to do. Journaling, AA meetings, exercise, painting these are all healthier options that you can use to express yourself and cope with what is going on. The only way to move forward is to deal with what is in front of you. Coping mechanisms are supposed to help get you to the point that you can deal with an issue.

Finally, the one thing that will help you break an addiction is motivation. You have to want to break the addiction. It won't matte if everyone around you wants you to break the addiction and is supportive, if you do not want to stop you won't.

It is that simple. Breaking an addiction is personal; it is something that you have to do for you and no one else. Yes, it may save a relationship, or a job but those are bonuses to you wanting to break the addiction.

Admit that you have a problem. Figure out why you have that problem. Find a healthy alternative to the addiction. Want to change the behavior, and you will.