RATIONALIZING

Definition of Rationalize:
Attempt to explain or justify with logical reasons, even if these are not appropriate.

Synonyms of Rationalize:
Justify, explain (away), defend, vindicate, excuse, make acceptable, extenuate, etc

These notes are from recovery in AA and/or related 12 step programs. Readers are encouraged to click external links for more detail. We hope you find them helpful.

Love in fellowship.

The crazy rationalizations that once characterized his drinking begin to blight his existence. He thinks that if pills can cure insomnia so may they cure his worry. Our friends the doctors are seldom directly to blame for the dire results we so often experience. It is much too easy for alcoholics to buy dangerous drugs, and once possessed of them the drinker is often likely to use them without any judgment whatever. –As Bill Sees It | More… (p.197)

As Bill Sees It: Selected writings from the co-founder of A.A. touch nearly every aspect of A.A.’s way of life. An aid to individual meditation and a stimulant to group discussion, As Bill Sees It contains 332 short writings.

There is no doubt, we can successfully rationalize our way through part of our recovery. But, eventually, we must squarely face the truth and start acting accordingly. The principles in the Twelve Steps guide us to a new life in recovery. There is little room for rationalization there. –Just For Today | More…