5 Ways to Survive Your First Time Speaking at an Alcoholic Anonymous Meeting

During your first few weeks or months of AA, you may feel most comfortable listening to stories being shared by other Alcoholic Anonymous members. But as time goes by, you may be asked to speak and share your own story. Your first time speaking at an AA meeting can seem nerve-wracking and scary, but your experience can actually enhance your journey on the road to sobriety.

Nobody should ever have to overcome addiction on their own, including you. Call 800-948-8417 Info iconCalls are forwarded to paid advertisers to learn more about local alcohol rehab centers and AA meetings that can help you achieve lifelong sobriety.

Here are five tips to help you survive your first time speaking at an AA meeting.

1. Relax

It’s normal and natural to experience some anxiety before speaking for the first time at AA. You may be shy in nature, or feel uncomfortable and scared about sharing your addiction story with others.

Practice deep breathing before speaking, which naturally helps you relax. Also, keep in mind that nobody is judging you, and that your story could help other AA members overcome their own problems with addiction. The more relaxed you feel, the more easily and naturally your story will flow.

2. Be Yourself

Speaking at an Alcoholic Anonymous Meeting

Try to relax and be yourself when sharing at an AA meeting.

You don’t necessarily need a degree in public speaking to effectively share your story and have it resonate with other AA members. When it’s your time to speak, just relax, and pretend you’re sharing your story with your favorite friend or family member. Be comfortable, and keep in mind that part of overcoming addiction with AA is learning how to forgive yourself, and accept yourself for who you are.

3. Don’t Feel Pressured to Have a Plan

Some people do their best speaking using index cards and notes as guides, while others prefer speaking from the heart without having a plan. If you’re not the type of person who normally uses outlines or notes, don’t feel stressed or pressured about spending time on preparation. You might even become inspired after standing up and seeing the faces of other supportive AA members.

4. Speak in First Person

Your fellow AA members want to hear about your own personal struggles and stories associated with addiction, and about how AA has worked for you. Always speak in first person using “I” statements, and avoid saying “you,” “us,” and other pronouns when addressing AA members. This also helps you stay accountable for your own actions when sharing your story about addiction.

5. Stay On Topic

Some AA meetings designate weekly topics, or choose specific topics for speakers. When delivering your message and sharing your story, try to stay on topic. This allows AA members to benefit more from your story — especially those who attended the meeting specifically to hear more about that particular topic.

Going to AA meetings should make you feel good about yourself, and about your decision to maintain lifelong sobriety. Turn your speaking event into a positive experience by remembering to relax, and being open to sharing your story with like-minded individuals with similar struggles.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, understand you’re not alone in your fight. Call 800-948-8417 Info iconCalls are forwarded to paid advertisers to learn more about nearby Alcoholic Anonymous meetings and alcohol rehab centers.

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