Author Phillip Pullman once said, “After nourishment, shelter, and companionship, stories are the thing we need most in the world.” The power of storytelling is what provides true connection, especially when we recognize that other people experience similar trials and triumphs as we do. As you set your goals on sobriety and healthy living, using motivational stories through various mediums might be exactly the reinforcement you need during National Recovery Month and beyond to stay the course.
Understanding the Two Types of Motivation
We have two types of motivation: intrinsic and extrinsic. When we’re intrinsically motivated, we don’t need external validation to do something—we’re already aware of the personal satisfaction we gain from it. As this study states, “Intrinsic motivation refers to people’s spontaneous tendencies to be curious and interested, to seek out challenges, and to exercise and develop their skills and knowledge.” Think of how you might like to go for a run simply because you enjoy it, pursue a new hobby even if there’s no money in it, or help another person without expecting anything in return.
Extrinsic motivation is based on reward or possibly avoiding disappointment or punishment. Our actions—or even the lack of them—rely on external validation in some form. So maybe you move from simply running to participating in a marathon for the medal and recognition. Of course, you might still appreciate the effort, but the force driving the accomplishment wasn’t internal.
Both forms of motivation have their place, especially when you’re evolving through addiction recovery. So for some people, hearing different motivational stories can add to their intrinsic drive with uplifting reinforcement or provide a guide to what they’d like to achieve.
Stories of Motivation, Inspiration, and Courage for Healthy Living
We might not share the same experiences, but telling our stories helps shape a narrative of perseverance and success. Consider adding these books to your list of motivational tools:
Mind over Moment: Harness the Power of Resilience by Anne Grady
Grady, an entrepreneur and a motivational speaker, provides a science-based approach in this book that allows you to become aware of your habits, beliefs, and behaviors to determine whether they’re supporting the life you want—or sabotaging it. She became fascinated with studying the brain and neurodevelopment while searching for treatment options for her son after he was diagnosed with severe mental illness and autism. Full of strategies and practical tools, this book aims to help you reduce anxiety, reactivity, and stress, and design a life of purpose. Grady also has a series of TEDTalks, including this one about realizing your strength.
Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life…And Maybe the World by Admiral William H. McRaven
McRaven, a former Navy Seal and current professor of national security, inspired millions when his motivational speech for University of Texas Austin graduates went viral in 2014—and now has more than 19 million views. This book captures the principles from that speech along with personal stories of individuals, including Veterans and first responders, who faced hardships but rose to the challenge with compassion, courage, and determination.
Awaken the Giant Within: How to Take Immediate Control of Your Mental, Emotional, Physical, and Financial Destiny by Tony Robbins
No motivational list would be complete without at least one of the multiple bestsellers from the charismatic Robbins. However, Awaken the Giant, considered to be his premiere work, is still one of the top motivational books of all time, with approximately 20 million copies sold, because of its empowering message and effective strategies and tactics. You’ll also find dozens of Robbins’ interviews online, including this one about dealing with low self-worth.
High Achiever: The Incredible True Story of One Addict’s Double Life by Tiffany Jenkins
Just because your boyfriend is a deputy sheriff doesn’t mean you can’t be crushed by opioid addiction. Jenkins doesn’t hold back on the details of her past struggles with substance use disorder but also highlights the surprising success of her journey back to health. She’s also a popular public speaker and comedian, generating awareness about mental health and addiction.
Sobriety Centers of New Hampshire: Your Source For Renewed Health
The Sobriety Centers of New Hampshire has two treatment centers with board-certified professionals offering an evidence-based approach to wellness:
- The Atrium House in Atrium, a detoxification and residential treatment facility for men and women.
- The Lakes Addiction Treatment Center in Laconia, which offers inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient rehabilitation programs for men and women.
Talk with a member of our admissions staff today to learn how you can add to your motivation to seek help for drug and alcohol addiction.