The following summarizes the description of the 11th Step provided in Alcoholics Anonymous (primarily on pp. 86-88). This is supplemented by some suggestions [in brackets] that have found helpful.
Preparing for the Day Ahead
1. We ask God to direct our thinking, asking especially that it be divorced from selfpity, dishonest or self-seeking motives.
2. We consider our plans for the day. We can now use our mental faculties with assurance.
3. If we face indecision or we can’t determine what course to take, we ask God for inspiration, an intuitive thought or a decision. We relax and take it easy.
4. We pray to be shown all through the day what our next step is to be, that we be given whatever we need to take care of problems.
5. We ask especially for freedom from self-will. [We might also pray for help with specific defects or problem areas, and review our 10th step corrective measures for the day ahead.]
Prayers to be of Use
6. We ask for guidance in the way of patience, kindness, tolerance and love especially within the family.
7. We pray as to what we can do today for the person who is still sick. [We might also pray for specific people in need, or those with whom we’re angry.]
Spiritual/Religious Exercises
8. If appropriate, we attend to our religious devotions, or say set prayers which emphasize 12 Step principles.
9. We may read from a spiritual book.
Practicing the 11th Step Throughout the Day
10. We pause, when agitated or doubtful, and ask for the right thought or action.
11. We constantly remind ourselves we are no longer running the show, humbly saying to ourselves many times each day “Thy will be done.”
Questions to think about when working Step 11
With help from the book, Alcoholics Anonymous
1. On awakening, do you think about the 24 hours ahead and consider your plans for the day?
2. Before you begin, do you ask God to direct your thinking, especially asking that it be divorced from self-pity, dishonest or self-seeking motives?
3. Do you refrain from making requests for yourself only, except in cases where others may be helped?
4. How do you handle indecision? Do you ask God for inspiration, an intuitive thought or a decision? Do you relax and take it easy, or do you struggle?
5. Do you pray to be shown all throughout the day what your next step is to be, and that you be given whatever you need to take care of such problems?
6. Do you ask for freedom from self-will?
7. Do you refrain from making requests for yourself only, except in cases where others may be helped?
8. Are you careful never to pray for your own selfish ends?
9. If circumstances warrant, do you ask your spouse or friends to join you in morning meditation?
10. Do you attend to your religious morning devotion?
11. Do you pause when agitated or doubtful, and ask for the right thought or action? Do you remind yourself that you are no longer running the show, humbly saying to yourself many times each day, “Thy will be done”?
