Stagnation is defined as the state of being still, or not moving, like a sitting puddle of water where stagnation attracts mosquitoes.
The root of stagnation is the Latin word for “standing water,” stagnatum.
Stagnation refers to the failure to find a way to contribute. These individuals may feel disconnected or uninvolved with their community and society.
A rut is often a result of stagnation and is a habit or pattern of behavior that has become dull and unproductive and it is often hard to change.
In recovery over addiction and other behavioral challenges, stagnation can be very precarious.
Most all of us, at one time or another, hit a snag or get slowed down. This is often a temporary event and we get moving again rather quickly.
Stagnation in personal recovery can get dangerous because it can cause emotional pain and mental frustration. When we experience this type of pain/frustration it can lead to a spiral and a subsequent relapse.
How do we get out of the Rut or reverse the stagnation?
- Decide we don’t want to be there anymore
- We need to take our own inventory in the 4 dimensions consisting physical, emotional, mental and spiritual. If you find it is more than one dimension focus on the one that will likely influence the other.
- It is often very helpful to bring in a trusted person who can help you stay objective
- Put together a course of action
- Follow said course
- Monitor progress while adjusting as you move forward
When we implement these notions and activate the steps we will have the results we work for.
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Robert Pardon
Robert is the Recovery Guy. Getting clean and sober on April 25, 1986 has given me the insight and practical skill set to not only stay sober, but to also re-invent myself to the person I always wanted to become. Showing others how to do this is my life goal.
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