“We would like it understood that our alcoholic work is an avocation.” (Foreword to First Edition, Big Book)
An avocation is a sideline.
Too much AA, and it’s possible to think one has become a big shot. One feels slighted if a sponsee ends the sponsorship or someone reacts badly to one’s share. That’s a sign that one has started to attach one’s identity to the work.
Having the right equilibrium prevents getting too attached to any one thing.
To that, add the anonymity of Tradition Twelve.
One isn’t being anything or anyone; one is merely performing tasks, and not on one’s own account.