If You Must Move. . .

1. As soon as you know your new location, begin corresponding with AAs there. (Names and addresses are listed in the World Directory.) Then there will be someone to welcome you when you arrive.


2. Attend a meeting on your first or second evening. The longer you put it off, the harder it gets.


3. While busy unpacking and getting settled, go to as many meetings as possible. Your thinking will be better and the job easier to cope with.


4. Do not talk too much about "back home."


5. Don't compare your new group with those you previously attended.


6. Get close to a person with longer sobriety than yours. Arrange to meet for lunch, perhaps; it is easier to talk in a relaxed atmosphere.


7. Keep your eyes open for brand-new people. Get their telephone numbers and call. Newcomers need encouragement, and it will help you.


8. Get involved in doing something in the group, even if it is only cleaning ashtrays or setting up chairs.


9. Get to meetings early. If you are among the first few people there, members can introduce you to others as they come in.


10. Tell people immediately that you are new in the area, and give them any other pertinent information.


11. Give yourself a chance to enjoy the people in the groups you attend. Do not keep changing groups at the beginning. The more meetings you attend at one particular group, the better acquainted you will become.


12. Above all, do not--repeat, do not--take that first drink.