Escaping alcoholism is a great start, but it is not enough alone to ensure a satisfying life in recovery. This is because life has to have meaning and purpose in order for it to be enjoyable. Hobbies are more than just a way to fill time. They provide pleasure and improve mental and physical well-being. These activities can give life in recovery a real purpose, and this will reduce the risk of relapse. It is possible that people can become too obsessive about their hobbies, so the key is moderation. Our generous Recovered Podcast Community allows us to be self supporting and not rely on outside contributions.  If you would like to join us, there are three ways. Episode Sponsorship  We will recognize you by first name only at the top, mid, and end of the episode.  Any amount will qualify. Premium Membership  This is the single most effective way to support the show.  Watch the video in its entirety and learn how to become Premium Sustaining Partners  We have three ways in which you can participate in this 12-step mission We invite you to be a partner is this work. Call Us Now  http://recoveredcast.com/speakpipe 2020 International Convention News So, listeners, join us at The 2020 International Convention of AA in Detroit. If you are coming into town for the convention, the Recovered Podcast wants to meet you! If you would like to get all the information regarding the Recovered Podcast at the 2020 International Convention, just email me and we will get you on our google group. Just email me at mark@recoveredcast.com To get on our 2020 International Convention Google group.  This google group will be notified with all the Recovered Podcast Plans for the convention and will have all the information about how to find our tailgate party.  Right now, our google group has been provided with maps and general information about Detroit. Email me at mark@recoveredcast.com if you want these kinds of updates. ________________________________________________________   Now, back to the show… Tonight, the topic is  Having Hobbies in Recovery   If people feel that their life has no meaning and purpose they will find it impossible to build a successful life in recovery. During their years of addiction the focus would have been on obtaining and using their drug of choice.  It is therefore vital that they replace this hole in their life with something new. The more meaning that people find in recovery the less likely it will be that they will relapse.   Tonight, we talk about having hobbies in recovery   Anne-Marie, let’s start before program   What hobbies did you have before program? What things were you good at when you were young?   Did you feel bored in early recovery? Did you have a hard time recreating in recovery?   What activities/hobbies do you enjoy today?   How does this benefit your recovery? Why is this important to your recovery?   What have you learned about yourself regarding having fun in recovery? What talents did you discover you have in recovery?    ______________________________________________________ We asked our listeners about this topic.   Now, listeners, If you would like to participate in these weekly surveys, just email me for an invite request.  Email me at mark@recoveredcast.com And I will send you an invite to our Recoveredcast Google group.  This group receives the show notes for the upcoming show. You will also receive an invite to participate in the weekly survey.  You will also receive a link to call into the show so you can share you experience with the recovery topic. This group helps us prepare for each week’s topic.   Again, just email for your a google group invite. Just email me at mark@recoveredcast.com To get involved in each week’s show prep.   We asked our listeners,  "Do you Have a Hobby?”   Did you take the survey?   https://www.surveymonkey.com/analyze/XHRcXD_2BW9m3nF8ZWxbn5nf3WyakD8W232JmG4MTlN90lzuXeTikH6EJtM7_2Fv7tue   What would be your answer? _______________________________________________