Step 7: Embracing Humility and Change

Step 7: Embracing Humility and Change

What Is Step 7?

Step 7 of the 12-Step Program is about humility and surrender. It states: “Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings.”

This step is a turning point in recovery, where individuals acknowledge that they cannot overcome their flaws alone. It’s about letting go of self-will and trusting a higher power to guide personal transformation.

Why Is Step 7 Important?

Step 7 is crucial because it shifts the focus from self-reliance to spiritual growth. It teaches individuals to accept their imperfections and seek help in overcoming them. By embracing humility, they open themselves to positive change, making it easier to break free from destructive patterns.

How to Accomplish Step 7

• Practice humility – Recognize that change requires outside help and be open to guidance.
• Reflect on shortcomings – Identify behaviors and attitudes that hold you back.
• Ask for help – Whether through prayer, meditation, or conversations with a sponsor, actively seek support.
• Commit to growth – Be willing to let go of old habits and embrace new, healthier ways of living.

What to Expect in Your Journey with Step 7

Step 7 is a deeply personal and transformative moment in recovery, marked by the humility of asking a Higher Power to remove shortcomings. While the journey through this step varies from person to person, many have experienced profound shifts in their mindset, relationships, and self-perception.

Russell Brand – In Recovery: Freedom from Our Addictions, Brand describes how surrendering his shortcomings allowed him to stop being controlled by them. He shares how he noticed his arrogance and self-centeredness fading as he embraced humility and service to others. His book provides exercises and reflections on how Step 7 helped him let go of destructive behaviors and embrace a new way of living.

Eric Clapton – In Clapton: The Autobiography, Clapton discusses how Step 7 helped him recognize his need for control and perfectionism. He describes moments where he realized that as he let go of these traits, his relationships improved, and he found peace in accepting life as it came. His journey through addiction and recovery is deeply personal, and he shares how humility played a key role in his transformation.

Anne Lamott – Lamott has spoken about how Step 7 helped her let go of resentment. She describes moments where she realized she was no longer reacting with anger but instead responding with patience and understanding. Her book Bird by Bird contains anecdotes about personal growth and overcoming self-destructive tendencies through humility and acceptance.

Through Step 7, many discover that humility is not about feeling small—it’s about becoming whole.

 How to Know If You’re Ready for Step 8

Step 8 involves making amends to those harmed by past actions. You’ll know you’re ready when:

• You’ve fully embraced Step 7 and are willing to take responsibility.
• You feel genuine remorse for past behaviors and want to make things right.
• You understand that making amends is about healing, not guilt.
• You’re prepared to approach others with honesty and humility.

Step 7 is a powerful moment in recovery, marking the transition from self-awareness to action. By embracing humility and seeking change, individuals set the foundation for deeper healing in Step 8.