What is rule 62 in sobriety?

n sobriety and 12-Step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Rule 62 is an informal, guiding principle that simply states: “Don’t take yourself too damn seriously”. It is a reminder to embrace humility, laugh at your mistakes, and find joy in the recovery journey.

The Origin Story

The term stems from a letter written by AA co-founder Bill Wilson. In the early days, an ambitious group in West Virginia planned to build an elaborate, expensive rehab and recovery facility. They were drafting a massive list of rules, but the project quickly caused intense arguments and ego clashes among the members.

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To justify their extensive guidelines, one member jokingly mailed cards to groups around the country claiming it was “Rule 62″—implying there were 61 other rules before it. The inside of the card carried one simple, lighthearted message:

Don’t take yourself so damn seriously.

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Why it Matters in Recovery

Removes the Pressure of Perfection: Sobriety is a lifelong journey, not a pass/fail test. Rule 62 grants permission to mess up, forgive yourself, and keep moving forward.
Replaces Guilt with Humor: Early recovery often involves facing a lot of past mistakes. This rule encourages individuals to lighten up, chuckle at their quirks, and not let shame derail their progress.
Encourages Fun: Many people worry that life won’t be enjoyable without substances. Rule 62 is a gentle push to relax, socialize, and rediscover how to have fun while sober.
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You can read more about its historical context in the official Alcoholics Anonymous FAQ or listen to Bill Wilson’s lighthearted address on the Alcoholics Anonymous Archive.