Here are forty-one symptoms. Symptoms of what, you ask? We'll come to that later. Let's do the quiz first.
How many of these were live problems when you were new to recovery?
How many of these are live problems today?
1.
Acting without thinking
2.
Avoiding completion of tedious
tasks
3.
Avoiding starting time-consuming
tasks
4.
Cannot take on board instructions
5.
Careless
6.
Constantly checking the phone
7.
Constantly refreshing the screen
8.
Difficulty concentrating
9.
Difficulty doing one thing at a
time
10.
Difficulty following instructions
11.
Difficulty organising the day
12.
Difficulty prioritising
13.
Difficulty sitting still
14.
Easily distracted
15.
Emotions that are disproportionate
16.
Emotions that are inappropriate
17.
Emotions that are untimely
18.
Fidgets in seat
19.
Forgetful
20.
Getting into dangerous situations
21.
Impulsiveness
22.
Interrupting conversations
23.
Losing things
24.
Mood swings
25.
Often late
26.
Performing self-destructive acts
27.
Poor project management skills
28.
Poor time management
29.
Poor working memory
30.
Procrastination
31.
Recklessness
32.
Restlessness
34.
Speaking without thinking
35.
Switching frequently between
activities
36.
Switching frequently between tasks
37.
Talking excessively
38.
Trouble controlling anger
39.
Trouble controlling frustration
40.
Trouble sitting still
41.
Unable to take turns appropriately
How many did you score?
As a newcomer, I scored 41/41, in spades.
Today, half a dozen make an appearance, but they cause few problems.
What brought about the change?
The AA programme.
Now, what do think this is a checklist for?
Emotional immaturity?
Spiritual malady?
Untreated alcoholism?
All fit like a glove.
Actually the list is for ... well, something else.
What matters is this:
THERE IS A SOLUTION