Step 8 Worksheet with Questions

A Guided 8th Step Worksheet with Questions for AA, NA & Other 12 Step Programs

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Click the button below to view, print or download the 8th step worksheet. It breaks down step 8, explains why it’s important and includes questions to help guide you or a sponsee through step 8. Scroll down on this page for a preview of what is included in this downloadable or printable worksheet.

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Step 8: Made a list of all persons we had harmed, and became willing to make amends to them all.

Step 8 of the 12-Step Program delves deep into personal introspection, prompting individuals to confront and recognize the harm they might have caused during their time in addiction. It’s a pivotal juncture in the recoveryThe process by which addicts attempt to break the hold a certain substance or behavior has on their lives. This can refer to participation in a wide variety of methods. What they all have in common, is a sense that life is improving and the addict is regaining control. process, emphasizing not only personal responsibility but also the tangible, real-world consequences of addiction.

What sets Step 8 apart from the preceding steps is its proactive nature, moving beyond self-reflection to pave the way for actionable reconciliation with the past.

Understanding Step 8

The philosophy underlying step 8 is twofold. First, it stresses the importance of self-awareness, making individuals aware of the pain and upheaval they might have inflicted on others. Second, it champions empathy, underscoring the need for genuine remorse and a true willingness to make amends. However, it’s crucial to approach this step with a balanced emotional mindset.

Rather than getting entangled in a web of guilt and regret, Step 8 encourages individuals to objectively confront their actions, acknowledging their missteps without letting shameFeelings of shame and inadequacy often contribute both to the onset of addiction and its continuation. Addicts also often commit immoral acts, leading to further shame. This leads to a destructive shame-addiction cycle. Breaking the cycle is one of the keys to recovery. overshadow the primary goal of healing and restoration.

How to Work Step 8

Working your Step 8 requires a methodical and introspective approach. You’ll be drafting a detailed list of all those you believe have suffered due to your actions, keeping in mind that harm isn’t always overt or conspicuous.

Sometimes, the most profound wounds are subtle and unspoken. As you navigate this step, it’s imperative to maintain a high degree of objectivity. Emotions, while natural, can sometimes distort our perceptions, leading us to either overemphasize or downplay our actions.

A sponsorAn individual in a 12-step program requires a sponsor to help them work the steps and hold them accountable for their recovery. The sponsor should be readily available when help is needed. A member with a sponsor is considered to be the sponsee., with their experience and perspective, can be a beacon of guidance during this phase, helping you see clearly and offering invaluable insights into your journey.

While the central aim of Step 8 is to confront and list-out harms, it’s essential not to bypass the emotional turbulence that accompanies this process. Feelings of guilt, shame, resentment, or even anger might surface, and it’s crucial to acknowledge, process, and address them constructively.

One key distinction to keep in mind is the difference between apologies and amends. While apologies signify regret, amends represent actionable stepsThe term “12 steps” refers to the core principles of the approach to addiction exemplified by Alcoholics Anonymous and other similar groups. The 12 steps are a set of guidelines designed to help individuals overcome addiction and rebuild their lives. They were created by the founders of Alcoholics A… to rectify and mend broken bonds. Keeping this in mind, Step 8 essentially serves as a springboard for Step 9, prepping individuals emotionally and mentally for the reparative actions that lie ahead.

Step 8, like its counterparts, isn’t a destination but a significant milestone in the continuous journey of recovery and self-improvement. It underscores the importance of progress over perfection and celebrates the individual’s commitment to healing, reconciliation, and a brighter future.

Step 8 Questions

What are the most important relationships you destroyed or damaged because of your addictive behaviors?

Do you owe anyone an apology for your non-addiction related behavior? Should they be on your list?

Have you pictured making amends to anyone over the years? Who was it? What did it look like?

Who do you most fear making amends to? Do you look forward to making amends to anyone?

Will I be harming the person or others further by making amends?

What is your absolute worst fear regarding making amends? How likely is that to occur? What are your best expectations? How likely are they?

How can I let go of these expectations and realize I am powerless over the response?

How is making amends different from just saying you are sorry?

Now make that list. Try to include everyone you have hurt due to your addictive behavior. For each write how your behavior affected their lives as individuals. Only then write how it influenced your relationship.

Name or Person Affected: