Pride in Reverse (Step 4 continued): A Guide to Overcome Pride and Fear in the Fourth Step of the 12-Step Program

The fourth step of the 12-step program is to make a "searching and fearless moral inventory" of ourselves. This step requires us to examine our past actions, thoughts, and feelings, and to identify our character defects, such as pride, fear, anger, resentment, selfishness, dishonesty, and more. The purpose of this step is to help us become aware of our shortcomings and to prepare us for the next steps of admitting them, asking for help, and making amends.

However, many people find this step difficult and challenging, as it involves facing the truth about ourselves and confronting our fears and insecurities. Some people may avoid or postpone doing this step, while others may do it superficially or dishonestly. One of the common obstacles that prevent us from doing a thorough and honest inventory is pride. Pride is a false sense of self-importance that makes us think that we are better than others, that we don't need help, that we don't make mistakes, or that we don't have to change. Pride can also manifest as reverse pride, which is a false sense of self-pity that makes us think that we are worse than others, that we are hopeless, that we are victims, or that we don't deserve forgiveness. Pride in any form can keep us from admitting our faults and seeking recovery.




Pride In Reverse (Step 4 continued)