“Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.” — Step Six
Step Six marks a subtle but essential turning point in the 12-Step process. After taking inventory in Step Four and sharing our truth in Step Five, Step Six asks something deeper: are we ready to change? Are we truly willing to let go of the patterns that have shaped our lives for so long?
The Principle of Willingness
Willingness is the key principle behind Step Six. It is not about perfection or instant transformation—it’s about readiness. Willingness means showing up with openness, even when we’re scared. It means acknowledging that we may still be attached to some defects, but we’re willing to release them, little by little.
As the Big Book says on page 76:
“Are we now ready to let God remove from us all the things which we have admitted are objectionable? Can He now take them all—every one? If we still cling to something we will not let go, we ask God to help us be willing.”
Step Six in the Big Book and 12 & 12
- Read the Big Book, page 76 (especially paragraph 1) in the first person.
- Read Step 6 in the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions slowly, as if it were your own story. Let it speak to your current state of willingness.
From Character Defects to Character Growth
To work Step Six, begin by returning to your inventory. Review the character defects revealed in Steps Four and Five. Then, write down the opposite quality of each one. This isn’t about condemning yourself—it’s about learning to practice new ways of being.
Example Exercise:
| Character Defect | Spiritual Opposite | Practice Today |
|---|---|---|
| Procrastination | Action | Take one step forward on a task you’ve been avoiding |
| Resentment | Forgiveness | Pray for or journal about someone you’re holding anger toward |
| Self-pity | Gratitude | Write down 3 things you’re grateful for today |
| Judgment | Compassion | Offer kindness to someone you find difficult |
Look Up These Definitions
To go deeper into Step Six, spend time with the following words. Look them up and reflect on what they mean in your life today:
- Entirely Ready – Completely prepared; nothing held back
- Remove – To take away or lift off; to release
- Defects – Faults, flaws, or habitual patterns that block our spiritual growth
- Character – The qualities that define who we are and how we behave
- Shortcomings – Gaps between who we are and who we want to be
- Willingness – A readiness to do something; an openness to change
Step Six Is a Process
Step Six is not a one-time event—it’s a spiritual posture. You may be entirely ready to release some defects, while others may take time. That’s okay. What matters is your honest intention and daily practice.
If there are parts of you that still cling to old ways, ask for help. Pray for willingness. Share about your resistance with a sponsor or trusted recovery friend. And remember, God does the removing—we simply bring our readiness to the table.
Spiritual Growth Is Ongoing
Every time we notice a defect arising and choose the spiritual opposite, we are working Step Six. Over time, these small acts of willingness build new character. They bring us closer to who we were meant to be—whole, honest, free.
“Willingness is the key that unlocks the door of change. Step Six is where that door begins to open.”
Final Suggestions
- Make a daily list of one character defect you notice and one opposite trait to practice
- Pray for willingness each morning
- Talk about your Step Six experience in meetings or with your sponsor
Keep showing up. Keep being willing. Change is possible—and it begins with a simple decision to say: “Yes, I’m ready.”