We often say “take what you like and leave the rest.” How can I apply this concept of “take it or leave it” in my life?

Free dictionary “take it or leave it” idioms https://idioms.thefreedictionary.com/take+it+or+leave+it

• Things I will (want to) take;
  • (What I like …)
  • Help
  • Change 
  • Compliments
  • Growth
  • Notice
  • Encouragement
  • Validation
  • Progress
  • Time
  • A breath
  • Some space
  • My feelings (all of them)
  • Changed attitudes
  • Optimism
  • Positivity
  • Care of myself (first)

• Things I will Not (don’t want to) take;
  • Other people’s problems, burdens
  • Other people’s responsibilities
  • “It personally”
  • Ultimatums
  • Offense
  • Demands
  • Blame
  • Expectations
  • Resentment
  • Anger
  • Name calling
  • Sarcasm
  • Bad attitudes
  • The bait, the rope
• Things (I want) to Leave;
  • (The rest…)
  • Negativity (others)
  • Negativity (mine)
  • Stinking Thinking
  • The past
  • Impatience
  • Ultimatums
  • Blame
  • Fear

Readings and Links

We read from How Al-Anon Works, Chapter 4 (Understanding Ourselves and Alcoholism – Searching for Answers) and Chapter 6 (The Family Disease of Alcoholism, Recognizing our Options).

Courage to Change, October 29.

Listeners mentioned several episodes, including these

• 229, Holiday Expectations
• 134, Holiday Survival Kit
• 293, Lynne – Grief can be a wonderful thing
• 301, Geneviève – Together we can make it
• 303, Michele B – My Solutions were my Problems

Add your voice

Please call us at 734-707-8795 or email feedback@therecoveryshow.com with your questions or experience, strength and hope. Or just leave a comment right here.

Music from the show

The Clash: Should I Stay or Should I Go

The Eagles: Take it Easy

Cage the Elephant: Take it or Leave it

“Blank Stares” by Jay Allen was suggested by a listener.