Last week, I shared about STEP – Solution To Every Problem – and why it’s such a great acronym.
After decades of applying the Twelve Steps to challenges and difficulties, I’ve seen firsthand that they work consistently and on any problem or issue. They are universal tools that we can use repeatedly – they don’t wear out.
Why STEP Works Every Time
The Steps are not just for addiction; they’re principles for living. No matter the situation, applying the Steps provides a pathway to clarity, humility, and growth.
There’s also a second reason this acronym stands out, beautifully illustrated in an old sponsorship joke. It makes people chuckle knowingly because of its truth.
The Sponsorship Joke That Reveals a Truth
Here’s how it goes:
To be recognized as a great sponsor, you only need three skills. The first is the ability to appear as though you’re listening. The second and third: the ability to choose a number between one and twelve and then stick with it.
When your sponsees come to you with their complaints, problems, and frustrations, here’s the method:
Listen (or at least appear to). Let them talk until they run out of steam.
Pick a number between one and twelve.
Say: “This sounds like a Step ___ problem.”
Stay silent. Let the Step do the work.
It doesn’t matter which number you pick. The sponsee will begin to see that applying any Step has value because each one speaks to universal truths about life and recovery.
The Wisdom Behind the Humor
Every Step contains lessons on surrender, responsibility, humility, and service. No matter where you start, you begin to apply the Principles that underlie the program.
When you do this:
Your sponsees will see simplicity in complexity.
They will praise your wisdom and insight.
They will believe you truly care about their struggles.
And perhaps, in the process, they will learn that the Steps really are the Solution To Every Problem.
STEP is true. The Steps are the Solution To Every Problem – and we can trust them, one day and one issue at a time.