For some of us, denying mistakes or missteps is a deep reflex. Before recovery, we may have saved face by sidestepping blame, feigning ignorance, or outright lying. When we start working Steps, we might read ahead to Step Ten and wonder how we’ll do it.

The wording of Step Ten—“when we were wrong”—reminds me that I’m not wrong all the time. I don’t have to accept blame for everything that happens. The Step also asks me to admit “promptly” when I am in the wrong. This means Step Ten can be my companion throughout the day, helping me to live with the kind of honesty that keeps me sober, emotionally or physically.

Today, I will keep Step Ten in mind throughout my workday. If I feel myself picking up a defect of character, or if I make a mistake and feel tempted to cover it up, I will admit it quickly to myself and ask for help from my Higher Power.