Defining WILL for Recovery

Will power, will and higher power are terms discussed in 12-Step programs of recovery. I for one did not understand the differences between the various attitudes and actions I adopted. Then I came across something similar to the following and I was able to tell the difference between them - at least in theory.

I took such a list to my sponsor and have been discussing these ever since.

Counter will

• Opposition to ‘other’ will (other being spiritual guidance, another person, parent, boss or what one ‘must’ do)
• Child will (As when a child defies its parental guidance)
• Rebellion

Positive will

• Willing what one ‘must’ do
• Disciplined will
• Parental will

Creative will

• Willing what one ‘wants’ rather than what one needs
• Passionate will

Higher will

• Spiritual will

Self will

• Non-spiritual will
• Not asking for a second opinion from another power (Higher Power, God)
• ‘Wilfulness’

Will power

• The ability to will
• The capacity to choose the most appropriate will to carry out
• The ability to action or carry out ones will
• Putting the chosen will into ones life

Free will

• The ability or capacity to have choice over will
• Individuality

All persons have will and willpower