Part of growing up is learning to not be self centered. It is an often forgotten part these days, but it is very important.
Any 12 step group will tell you that believing in a power outside yourself is helpful in your recovery. In a time when people tend to drift more towards Atheism this can be a very difficult step. However it is important to note that these programs do not in general endorse any particular religion. Different group meetings may focus more on a particular Religion, but that is not the intent of the organization in general. It is actually meant to encourage you to grow empathy, which can be damaged through addiction, and to begin to understand that there are things outside of your own control and things within your control so that you can begin to know the difference.
One way to look outside your self is through charity work. Seeing someone less fortunate than yourself leads to feelings of gratitude for what you have. It can also lead to having a greater self esteem because you have been helpful to another person.
That being said, it pays to do one's homework regarding the charity of choice. There are a lot of them out there that seem to be just a way for some ass to make a lot of money for their own bank account. So do a little googling, roll up your sleeves and put yourself out there. You'll feed good about it later. I promise.
