The Power of Continuous Written Inventories

In our AA Program, it is suggested that we take stock of ourselves, do a written inventory of our relationships and behaviours, and then continuously repeat.

The first inventory was challenging. I misread the Step Four instruction and thought I had to conduct a fearful moral inventory rather than a fearless moral inventory. But finally, I started and confronted the harm I had done and the damage I created. I dealt with the wreckage of my past, at least to some extent. It was extensive, complicated and messy, but worthwhile.

With a great sigh of relief, I remember looking forward to the next Step Four meeting, knowing I would not have to share about an imaginary Step Four.

But that relief was lost when I discovered that the Program called for a continuous inventory practice. It was all I could do to master my first inventory. Doing more seemed out of the question.

But the word continuous is there, and my sponsor shared his story of success in applying this rule.

So I followed his directions.

The second inventory was easier but still tricky. As my mind cleared, my memory returned, and new stuff came up. Even the third inventory was difficult, with even more problems bubbling up from the past.

However, I persisted, and with continuous inventory practice, I began to see the values and benefits more clearly. And being an alcoholic, I thought, if a few were good, many would be better, so I increased the practice. I started daily inventories and learned to catch myself with spot inventories during the day.

My sponsor pointed me to Bill Wilson’s comparison of our personal inventory practice to a business. Mindful of good business habits, I conducted quarterly inventories and began a practice of a comprehensive annual review.

When problems arose, I learned to take stock of specific areas of my life. Inventories of marriage and work relationships yielded important insights. And written inventories on relationships in sports and politics were helpful.

When I continuously practiced pen-to-paper inventories, I found that the nature, scope and frequency of my inventories changed, and I saw more and more benefits. I have never completed an inventory and said, “Boy, that was a waste of time.” Every written inventory has been a positive experience.

So, if you want what I have, start a disciplined practice of continuous written inventories of relationships with people, institutions, and principles. This will help you on your trudge of happy destiny.