Step 7 AA & NA is where willingness turns into action.
After opening yourself to change in Step 6, this step asks you to simply ask for help, to humbly seek support in releasing the habits that no longer serve you.
It’s not about erasing flaws overnight or striving for perfection; it’s about trusting that healing happens when you stop clinging to control.
Whether through prayer, meditation, or leaning on your recovery community, Step 7 teaches that humility is strength.
Here’s how to approach this transformative step with courage and self-compassion.
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What Is Step 7 in AA and NA?
Step 7 in AA states: “Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings.” 1
Step 7 in NA mirrors this wording but emphasizes personal accountability. 2
Both versions of the 12 steps of AA and NA invite you to actively seek support in letting go of harmful patterns like dishonesty, resentment, or self-pity.
This isn’t a passive process—it’s about taking intentional steps, whether through prayer, therapy, or honest conversations with your sponsor.
Your “Higher Power” might be a spiritual force, your support group, or the collective hope of recovery.
The AA Step 7 Prayer: A Path to Humility
The AA Step 7 prayer is a powerful tool for surrender: “My Creator, I now humbly ask that You remove my shortcomings. Guide me toward the person I’m meant to be.”
This prayer isn’t about religion—it’s about humility. If “Creator” doesn’t resonate, replace it with what grounds you: your recovery group, nature, or the strength of those who believe in you. 3
Step 7 NA’s , focus might shift to actionable commitment: “Help me replace old patterns with courage, one day at a time.”
Whether whispered aloud or written in a journal, this prayer is a reminder: Asking for help isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom.
Watch: Steps 6 & 7 – Letting Go and Leaning In
In this video, Cornerstone Healing Center’s CEO, Estil Wallace, reflects on Steps 6 and 7—where transformation begins by letting go of old patterns and trusting a Higher Power to help us change.
It’s about willingness, humility, and stepping into a new way of living.
Why Step 7 in AA and NA Matters
Step 7 is where self-reliance meets surrender.
Addiction often convinces us we can “fix” ourselves through sheer willpower, but Step 7 in AA and NA challenges that myth.
By humbly asking for help—whether from a higher power, sponsor, or community—you acknowledge that healing is a shared journey.
This step isn’t about shame; it’s about recognizing that holding onto flaws like pride or fear only deepens isolation.
The 12 steps of AA teach that humility bridges the gap between willingness and action.
Letting others support you isn’t failure—it’s the bravest step toward reclaiming your life.
Quick Tip: Humility Is a Daily Practice
Common Struggles With Step 7 AA & NA
Asking for help can feel like admitting defeat.
You might think, “I should handle this myself,” or fear vulnerability, thinking: “What if they judge me?”
Others resist humility, believing self-reliance is strength.
Step 7 in AA and NA reframes this—it’s not weakness to need support; it’s human.
If you’re stuck, start small: share one struggle with your sponsor or write a letter to your higher power.
The AA 12-step program isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress.
How to Work Through Step 7 of AA
- Start with honesty: Name one shortcoming you’re ready to release—like anger or dishonesty.
Use the AA Step 7 prayer—adapt it to fit your beliefs. - Lean on your sponsor: Their experience with the 12 steps for AA can offer clarity.
- Practice daily humility: Ask for help with small things (e.g., resisting a craving).
- Celebrate progress: Did you pause before reacting in anger? That’s growth!
Step 7 in AA isn’t a one-time act—it’s a daily practice.
Trust that small steps, like sharing in a meeting or meditating, build unshakable resilience.
AA vs. NA: Small Differences, Same Heart
Step 7 AA: Focuses on surrendering shortcomings to a higher power through prayer or meditation.
Step 7 NA: Emphasizes personal accountability—taking practical steps (e.g., journaling, amends) to replace old habits.
The 12 steps for AA and NA both teach that humility is transformative.
In AA, the AA Step 7 prayer might involve spiritual surrender; in NA, it could mean committing to honesty in all interactions.
Neither path is “better”—choose what aligns with your journey.
What matters is believing you’re worth the effort.
Below is a more in-depth breakdown of their differences.
What Comes After Step 7?
Step 8 follows: “Made a list of all persons we had harmed and became willing to make amends to them all.”
After releasing flaws in Step 7, Step 8 prepares you to repair relationships.
Think of Step 7 in AA or NA as clearing the weeds; Step 8 is planting seeds of healing.
In the AA 12-step program, this might involve reflecting on past actions with your sponsor.
In NA, it could mean mapping how addiction impacted others.
Both paths require courage—but Step 7’s humility makes this next step possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I’m ready for Step 7?
You’re ready for Step 7 when you’ve identified patterns to release (Step 6) and feel even a flicker of willingness to let go. You don’t need certainty—just openness. Start small: ask your higher power (or group) for help with one specific shortcoming, like impatience or dishonesty. Notice moments when old habits surface and pause to ask, “Can I choose differently today?” Progress in the 12 steps of AA and NA isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up, even imperfectly.
What’s the AA Step 7 prayer?
The AA Step 7 prayer is a heartfelt request for guidance: “My Creator, I now humbly ask that You remove my shortcomings. Guide me toward the person I’m meant to be.” If “Creator” doesn’t resonate, adapt it to your beliefs—replace it with “Group,” “Universe,” or “Hope.” This prayer isn’t about religion; it’s about humility. Writing it down, saying it aloud, or sharing it with your sponsor can anchor your commitment to growth. The goal is to release control and trust the process.
How does NA’s Step 7 differ from AA’s?
NA’s Step 7 focuses on actionable accountability rather than spiritual surrender. While AA emphasizes prayer or meditation to release shortcomings, NA encourages practical steps—like journaling, making amends, or setting daily intentions—to replace old habits. Both programs agree that humility is key, but NA leans into personal responsibility: “What can I do today to align with recovery?” Whether you resonate more with AA’s spiritual approach or NA’s hands-on focus, both paths teach that growth begins when you stop clinging to control.
What if I don’t believe in prayer?
Prayer in Step 7 isn’t about religion—it’s about humility. If the word feels uncomfortable, think of it as a daily intention or conversation. Try journaling (“Help me let go of anger today”), meditating on gratitude, or discussing your struggles openly with a sponsor. The core of Step 7 in AA and NA is admitting “I need support,” whether from people, principles, or your own inner strength. What matters is releasing the myth that you must fix everything alone.
Key Takeaways
- Key Takeaways
- Step 7 in AA is about humility, not perfection.
- The AA Step 7 prayer is a tool to practice surrender.
- Letting go requires daily, intentional effort.
- Both AA and NA teach that growth begins with asking for help.
Your Healing Journey Begins at Cornerstone
Step 7 in AA is where courage meets grace—a choice to trade self-reliance for shared strength.
Recovery isn’t about erasing your past but building a future where you’re free to live authentically, one humble, hopeful day at a time.
If you’re struggling with addiction, know that you don’t have to face it alone.
Cornerstone Healing Center offers personalized treatment programs rooted in compassion, connection, and lasting change.
Reach out today to take your next step toward healing.
