What have I missed?

A lot of people go through the Steps and discover that they're still unhappy or functioning poorly.

If that's the case, something's been missed.

That's fine; we all have to go through the Steps more than once.

Here's an exercise to find out what's been missed.

Read the Big Book up to the end of Dr Bob's Nightmare and ask yourself, line by line, whether the ideas suggested as part of the solution, the attitude to adopt, have been fully taken on board and implemented, and whether the actions suggested have been taken completely.

Beware self-satisfaction, sloppiness, and rationalisation. Many people think they have completed amends, but have not done their utmost to approach every single person they have harmed, right back to the beginning. Many people think they have done Step Four, but Step Four is not complete until we have taken a kindly and tolerant view of everyone. Many people think they have bought the spiritual side of the programme, but do not turn to God every time they are doubtful or agitated.

Produce two lists:

1. Every single attitude I have not adopted fully.
2. Every single action I have not taken in full and, where applicable, consistently over time.

This will show you where the problem is.