Simple Directions for Step 10 and the Principle of Perseverance

Step Ten and the Principle of Perseverance

“Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong, promptly admitted it.” — Step Ten of the Twelve Steps

Step Ten is about continuing the daily work of honesty and accountability. By this point in our recovery, we have cleared much of the past through inventory and amends. Step Ten is where we learn to live in the present with integrity. The principle here is Perseverance—showing up every day, again and again, to stay on the path of growth. Perseverance doesn’t mean perfection; it means steady effort, the willingness to keep going, and the humility to admit when we’ve fallen short.

The Meaning of Perseverance in Step Ten

Perseverance is about consistency and sincerity. It means practicing Step Ten not just once, but as a daily rhythm of life. When we make mistakes, we admit them quickly. When resentments, fears, or selfishness arise, we pause and take inventory. By persevering, we stay spiritually fit and keep our relationships clean. This practice builds freedom, peace, and authenticity over time.

Directions for Taking Step Ten

  • Read the Big Book, page 84, paragraph 2, and continue through pages 84–85 where Step Ten is described.
  • Read Step Ten in Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions (12×12).
  • Read the Tenth Step Prayer on page 85, paragraph 1, aloud. Make it part of your daily practice.
  • Read the Big Book pages in the first person, and take the action of Step Ten as you go.
  • Be totally sincere and authentic, acting with love and kindness toward all.
  • Keep trying—this is a Step of daily perseverance, not instant perfection.
  • Look up and reflect on the meanings of: Perseverance, Authenticity.

Why This Step Matters

Step Ten helps us maintain the progress we’ve made. Without it, old habits can return and resentments can pile up. By persevering with daily inventory, we prevent small problems from becoming big ones. This Step keeps us current with ourselves, with others, and with our Higher Power. It allows us to live freely in the present, unburdened by hidden guilt or unresolved conflict.

Practical Tip: Making Step Ten a Daily Habit

At the end of the day, set aside five minutes for quiet reflection. Review your actions and interactions. Where were you selfish, dishonest, fearful, or unkind? Where did you act with integrity and love? If you find you were wrong, promptly admit it—to yourself, to your Higher Power, and to others if needed. Then say the Tenth Step Prayer aloud, asking for strength to do better tomorrow.

Final Thoughts

Step Ten is the practice of perseverance. Each day, we continue to take personal inventory, admit our wrongs, and move forward with love and sincerity. Over time, this daily practice becomes a way of life. It keeps us spiritually grounded, emotionally free, and authentically connected. Perseverance in Step Ten reminds us: progress is built one honest step at a time.