What’s the best way to redirect motivation associated with drug use?

Cravings are intense desires that can make the recovery process. Fortunately, you can transform your cravings into motivation for something healthy.

Focus On Something Else

When you feel a craving, one of the most natural things you can do is focus on something else. For example, you could take a sip of water or eat a piece of fruit every time you have a craving.

In time, your brain can learn to associate the craving with drinking water or eating fruit, so you will be less inclined to think about drugs. Moreover, continually making a conscious decision to focus on drinking water or eating fruit might decrease your cravings’ intensity.

Exercise

One of the best ways to resist your cravings is to exercise. You don’t have to run a marathon every time you feel a craving, but going for a brisk walk or a short run will switch your focus onto something positive.  

Exercising has been linked to many health benefits, such as lowering your anxiety, reducing the incidence of heart disease, and more. Physical activity stimulates your body’s endorphin production, which can lead to elevated moods and happiness.

Create Goals for Yourself

Goals are beneficial for the recovery process because they allow you to reflect on the things that matter to you. By focusing on working toward your goals, you will shape the type of future you want.

Being SMART can help you create new goals. SMART stands for:

• Specific – Choosing specific goals.
• Measurable – Your goal should be measurable. 
• Achievable – Your goal should be realistic and attainable. 
• Relevant – You should be sure your goal matters to you.
• Time-bound – Your goal needs a deadline. 

Redirecting your motivation towards something healthy or goal-oriented can transform your cravings into something that helps you move forward in your life.