What happened in the past when you were faced with a seemingly insurmountable challenge?
- I found solace in my own thoughts and the company of books.
- I sought the support of close friends and family.
- I tried to distract myself with temporary pleasures.
- I confronted the challenge head-on, determined to overcome it.
How prepared are you for unexpected hardship?
- I’ve faced enough challenges to know that I can handle whatever comes my way.
- I have a support system in place and a plan to navigate difficult times.
- I try not to dwell on the possibility of hardship, but I know I’m resourceful.
- Honestly, hardship tends to hit me harder than I expect.
How would you describe your relationship to substances that alter your state of mind?
- I appreciate them for their ability to offer temporary escape and inspiration.
- I recognize their potential for harm and approach them with caution.
- I avoid them entirely, as I’m wary of their addictive nature.
- I’m intrigued by their effects but haven’t had much personal experience.
What do you think you need to find true fulfillment and happiness in life?
- Intellectual stimulation, meaningful connections, and a sense of purpose.
- A balance of pleasure, comfort, and personal growth.
- Freedom from material concerns and the opportunity to pursue my passions.
- I’m still figuring that out, but I’m open to exploring different paths.
How often do you reflect on the potential consequences of your actions?
- I carefully weigh the risks and benefits before making any major decision.
- I tend to trust my intuition and deal with consequences as they arise.
- I sometimes get caught up in the moment, which can lead to regrets.
- I’m quite risk-averse and strive to make responsible choices.
Which of the following is most accurate when it comes to your relationship with your past?
- I view my past as a source of valuable lessons and insights.
- I try to focus on the present moment, but my past sometimes weighs on me.
- I have come to terms with my past and feel at peace with my experiences.
- I’m still working through some unresolved issues from my past.
How do you handle the allure of instant gratification?
- I can resist temptation if I know it will ultimately lead to negative consequences.
- I sometimes struggle with it, but I try to practice moderation.
- I believe in indulging in life’s pleasures, as long as it doesn’t harm others.
- I’m disciplined and prioritize long-term goals over fleeting pleasures.
Do you have a strong sense of purpose or direction in your life?
- I have a clear vision of my goals and a plan to achieve them.
- I’m guided by my values and passions, even if I haven’t figured everything out yet.
- I’m still searching for my true purpose, but I’m open to possibilities.
- I find purpose in my daily routines and relationships.
How well do you understand the complexities of your own mind?
- I’m deeply introspective and constantly analyzing my thoughts and emotions.
- I’m aware of my strengths and weaknesses, but there’s always more to discover.
- I’m still learning about myself, and I embrace the journey of self-discovery.
- I prefer not to overthink things and focus on living in the present moment.
Which of these best describes your current biggest challenge?
- Finding a balance between my personal ambitions and my responsibilities.
- Overcoming self-doubt and fear of failure.
- Letting go of the past and embracing new opportunities.
- Managing stress and finding healthy coping mechanisms.
What comes to mind when you think about the nature of addiction?
- It’s a complex interplay of physical, psychological, and social factors.
- It’s a disease that requires compassion and understanding.
- It’s a sign of weakness and a lack of self-control.
- It’s a trap that can ensnare anyone, regardless of their background.
How do you handle situations where you feel powerless or out of control?
- I try to find a sense of agency by focusing on what I can control.
- I reach out to my support network for guidance and reassurance.
- I sometimes struggle to cope and may withdraw from others.
- I try to accept the situation and find ways to adapt.
What’s your favorite memory of a time when you felt truly alive and connected to something greater than yourself?
- Immersing myself in nature, surrounded by beauty and tranquility.
- Engaging in a thought-provoking conversation that expanded my understanding of the world.
- Experiencing a profound emotional connection with another person.
- Achieving a long-held goal and proving my capabilities to myself.
What do you think is missing in your quest to achieve a greater sense of peace and contentment?
- A deeper understanding of myself and my place in the world.
- Stronger connections with others who share my values and interests.
- The courage to confront my fears and pursue my true passions.
- Greater acceptance of my imperfections and the uncertainties of life.
What is your current level of expertise in recognizing the subtle signs of addiction in yourself and others?
- I’m quite knowledgeable about the different forms of addiction and their warning signs.
- I’m aware of the basics, but I could benefit from learning more.
- I’m not sure I would always recognize the signs, but I’m willing to learn.
- I trust my intuition and believe I would notice if someone close to me was struggling.
You are at a party and you see someone you care about engaging in potentially self-destructive behavior. What do you do?
- I approach them with compassion and express my concern without judgment.
- I subtly try to steer them away from the situation or distract them.
- I’m hesitant to interfere directly, but I might talk to a mutual friend.
- I observe the situation from a distance, hoping they’ll regain control.
How comfortable are you with acknowledging your own vulnerabilities and imperfections?
- I embrace my flaws as part of what makes me unique.
- I acknowledge my weaknesses, but I strive to improve myself.
- I tend to be self-critical and can be hard on myself for my mistakes.
- I prefer to focus on my strengths and accomplishments.
What’s your favorite fictional portrayal of addiction and its consequences?
- A story that delves into the psychological complexities of addiction without sensationalizing it.
- A narrative that highlights the devastating impact of addiction on individuals and their loved ones.
- A story that offers a message of hope and redemption for those struggling with addiction.
- I tend to avoid stories that focus heavily on addiction, as I find them triggering.
When you were a kid, how did you cope with feelings of boredom or restlessness?
- I would lose myself in books and let my imagination run wild.
- I would seek out new experiences and adventures.
- I enjoyed spending time alone, indulging in my own thoughts and hobbies.
- I would connect with friends and family, seeking companionship and fun.
You have a choice of spending a quiet evening lost in a good book or attending a lively social gathering. Which do you choose?
- A quiet evening with a good book, as I find solace in solitude and intellectual pursuits.
- A lively social gathering, as I enjoy connecting with others and experiencing new things.
- I need time for both, so it depends on my mood and energy levels.
A specific situation arises where you are offered a chance to escape your problems with a temporary but potentially harmful solution. How do you react?
- I carefully consider the potential consequences and prioritize long-term well-being.
- I might be tempted, but I would try to find a healthier way to cope.
- I would likely seize the opportunity for temporary relief.
- I would avoid the situation altogether and seek support from trusted sources.
What keeps you up at night about the state of the world and its future?
- The increasing prevalence of addiction and its impact on individuals and society.
- The erosion of human connection and the rise of isolation.
- The lack of empathy and compassion in the world.
- The potential for environmental disaster and societal collapse.
Which of these topics related to addiction and recovery would you enjoy the most?
- The neuroscience of addiction and the latest advancements in treatment.
- The power of storytelling and its ability to destigmatize addiction.
- The importance of community support and harm reduction strategies.
- The role of spirituality and mindfulness in recovery.
When you think about your own mortality, what are you most concerned about?
- Leaving behind a meaningful legacy and making a positive impact on the world.
- Living a life true to myself and my values.
- Experiencing the fullness of human connection and leaving no regrets.
- Finding peace and acceptance in the face of the unknown.
What aspect of human nature do you find most fascinating and perplexing?
- Our capacity for both great love and profound cruelty.
- Our endless pursuit of meaning and purpose in a seemingly indifferent universe.
- Our ability to create and destroy, to heal and to harm.
- Our constant struggle between our rational and emotional selves.
What is most likely to make you feel down about the current state of human understanding and compassion?
- The prevalence of judgment and stigma surrounding addiction.
- The lack of empathy for those who are struggling or different from ourselves.
- The tendency to prioritize individual gain over collective well-being.
- The persistence of inequality and injustice in the world.
In a perfect world, what would society’s approach to addiction look like?
- A compassionate and holistic approach that addresses the root causes of addiction.
- A focus on prevention, early intervention, and harm reduction strategies.
- A greater emphasis on mental health care and support for those struggling with addiction.
- A decriminalization of drug use and a shift towards treatment over punishment.
If you could waive a magic wand, what would the perfect outcome for someone struggling with addiction be?
- A complete recovery that encompasses physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
- A supportive and understanding community that embraces recovery without judgment.
- The opportunity to rebuild their lives and achieve their full potential.
- A world free from stigma and discrimination against those with addiction.
How often do you engage in activities that nurture your mental and emotional well-being?
- I make self-care a priority and engage in these activities regularly.
- I try to incorporate them into my routine, but life can get in the way.
- I acknowledge their importance but struggle to find the time or motivation.
- I’m still figuring out what works best for me.
How do you handle feelings of stress or anxiety?
- I have healthy coping mechanisms in place, such as exercise, meditation, or creative pursuits.
- I sometimes turn to unhealthy habits for temporary relief.
- I try to push through it and hope it passes.
- I rely on my support network for comfort and guidance.
What is your go-to activity or form of self-expression that allows you to tap into your creativity and imagination?
- Writing, painting, playing music, or engaging in other forms of artistic expression.
- Reading, watching films, or immersing myself in other forms of storytelling.
- Spending time in nature, observing its beauty and finding inspiration.
- Engaging in deep conversations that challenge my perspectives and ignite my curiosity.
What place, concept, or idea do you most want to explore and learn more about?
- The inner workings of the human mind and the nature of consciousness.
- The vastness of the universe and our place within it.
- The complexities of human history and civilization.
- The potential for human progress and the creation of a more just and equitable world.
What are you most passionate about when it comes to personal growth and self-improvement?
- Expanding my knowledge and understanding of the world.
- Cultivating deeper connections with others and building meaningful relationships.
- Overcoming my fears and stepping outside of my comfort zone.
- Developing greater self-awareness and emotional intelligence.
What is your absolute favorite activity that allows you to escape the demands of daily life and recharge your mental batteries?
- Curling up with a captivating book and losing myself in its pages.
- Immersing myself in nature, whether it’s a walk in the woods or a day at the beach.
- Engaging in a creative pursuit, such as writing, painting, or playing music.
- Spending quality time with loved ones, sharing laughter, and meaningful conversations.
How would your friends and family describe your approach to life’s challenges and opportunities?
- Resilient, resourceful, and determined to make the most of every situation.
- Introspective, compassionate, and always willing to lend a listening ear.
- Curious, adventurous, and always seeking new experiences.
- Loyal, supportive, and always there for the people I care about.
Tell us a little about your perspective on the balance between seeking pleasure and embracing responsibility.
- I believe in enjoying life’s pleasures, but never at the expense of my well-being or the well-being of others.
- I sometimes struggle to find the right balance, but I’m always striving to make responsible choices.
- I believe that true happiness comes from living a life of purpose and meaning, which includes fulfilling my responsibilities.
- I’m still figuring out my own personal philosophy when it comes to this balance.
If you could choose any character trait from Confessions of an English Opium-Eater, which one would you choose and why?
- De Quincey’s resilience, as he demonstrates remarkable strength in overcoming adversity.
- His intellectual curiosity, as he never stops seeking knowledge and understanding.
- His capacity for empathy, as he shows compassion even towards those who have wronged him.
- His self-awareness, as he is unflinchingly honest about his flaws and struggles.
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you consider the role of forgiveness in the process of healing and recovery?
- Forgiveness is essential for both the person who has been harmed and the person who has caused harm.
- Forgiveness is a process, not a destination, and it takes time and effort.
- Forgiveness doesn’t mean forgetting or condoning the harm that was done.
- Forgiveness is a powerful act of self-compassion that can liberate us from the past.
What affects you the most: the suffering of others, the injustices of the world, or your own personal struggles?
- I am deeply affected by the suffering of others and feel a responsibility to make a difference.
- I am outraged by injustice and strive to create a more equitable world.
- I am primarily focused on my own personal growth and well-being.
- I am affected by all of these things to varying degrees, and it depends on the situation.
What’s your idea of a fulfilling and meaningful life, even in the face of life’s inevitable challenges?
- A life filled with love, connection, and purpose.
- A life of continuous learning, growth, and self-discovery.
- A life that embraces both joy and sorrow, recognizing the beauty in both.
- A life that leaves a positive impact on the world and inspires others.
What is your strongest quality that helps you navigate the complexities of life and your own internal world?
- My empathy and compassion for myself and others.
- My intellectual curiosity and thirst for knowledge.
- My resilience and determination to overcome challenges.
- My creativity and ability to find beauty in unexpected places.