The 12th Step

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Addiction programs of note have 12 steps to recovery.   Individuals who complete 11 of 12 steps have a higher likelihood to lapse back into their addictive behavior than those who complete all the steps.  Said differently, individuals who make it 90% of the way stumble far more than those who go one level further.  What makes the 12th step so powerful?  The 12th step is a commitment to mentor another person who has suffered from the addiction.  The act of giving ourselves in the service of others has a profound and lasting impact.

If a friend tells you they donated $1,000 to a charity it may be impressive but it might not be a transformational act.  If your friend told you they gave their Saturday to refurbish a charity’s program center, we are inspired.  The commitment of our time and expertise has more of a far-reaching impact than the investment of capital.  The act of donating our time is valued more than our treasure.  If we offer our time in the service of others it inspires and builds a committed tribe.

* Another post from a day with Simon Sinek in New York City.

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