Navigating through life’s twists, turns, and roadblocks, I’ve thought often about if I’m on the right path. Without a compass in those moments when we question our path — how do we recognize the signs that affirm we are moving in the right direction in life and in recovery?

Throughout the past couple decades when the clock would strike 11:11, it was a gentle tap on the shoulder from the universe that I’m right where I need to be. Some would say it’s silly, and maybe it is. But it’s always been a small, yet powerful affirmation that my path, with all its disruptions and ugliness, is mine and mine alone.

Heeding advice once imparted to my brother, I’ve embraced the idea of staying away from ‘what-if’ing’ and trusting that I’ve got the wisdom and tools at my disposal to manage what lies ahead. In recovery, this means believing in my capacity to overcome challenges without second-guessing every step. It’s about having faith in the skills I’ve honed on my journey — the resilience, coping strategies, and knowledge that I’ve gathered along the way. But this is in everything I do—in raising kids, starting a new job, navigating relationships (good and bad). I’ve learned to get ok with not knowing what’s going to happen and not having control of the outcome. It’s still scary, but it’s a lot less stressful to not play out all scenarios before something happens. It takes a lot of time, energy, and creativity to imagine all the ways I can fail at something before I even start. I have to put myself in uncomfortable positions over and over again to learn to not do this.

The art of seeking and accepting help is another compass point that guides me. The key is to practice reaching out for it and receiving it graciously, irrespective of my mood or pride. Whether it’s a supportive friend, a recovery group, or doctors, the act of asking for help is a clear signal that I’m prioritizing my well-being. It’s a muscle that needs to be exercised, for it’s in the acceptance of support that my struggles are shared and their weight is lighter.

Within the past six months of recovery, I’ve come to understand that growth is not the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow—it’s the rainbow itself. Our experiences, good and bad, add the color to our lives as we adapt and grow.

So what tells me I’m on the right track?

1. Peace of Mind: When I’m on the right path, there’s an underlying sense of serenity that permeates my life, even amidst challenges. My stress levels are low, and I don’t feel anxious about the unknowns ahead of me. This comes from knowing that I’m living authentically and being honest with myself and with others.
2. Continuous Growth: Personal development is a clear sign of being on the right path. When I’m constantly learning, evolving, and stepping out of my comfort zone, it means I’m not standing still. My growth comes with discomfort and is accompanied by a sense of accomplishment, and then joy surfaces.
3. Synchronicity: Life seems to fall into place with a series of coincidences or synchronicities. Opportunities seem to arise at just the right time, and the decisions I make lead to even more opportunities. This isn’t to say that everything is perfect, but there’s a pattern of events that feels like the universe is affirming my choices.

It’s important to note that being on the right path doesn’t mean there’s an absence of obstacles or difficulties. Its living with joy despite of hurdles that reaffirms I’m living as my best self, the person I’m meant to be. I’m on my path.