Sponsorship Evaluation Checklist

Does your sponsor respect your right to make your own decisions?

Can you disagree with your sponsor without fear of consequences?

Does your sponsor offer suggestions rather than demands?

Are you free to take what works and leave what doesn't?

Does your sponsor encourage you to think for yourself?

Does your sponsor maintain appropriate boundaries?

Is your sponsor uninvolved in areas outside recovery (finances, romantic relationships, career decisions)?

Does your sponsor respect your time and availability?

Does your sponsor maintain appropriate physical and romantic boundaries?

Does your sponsor keep what you share confidential?

Can you express concerns openly with your sponsor?

Does your sponsor listen without judgment?

Does your sponsor avoid using shame, guilt, or fear as motivators?

Do you feel safe being honest with your sponsor?

Does your sponsor acknowledge when they don't have all the answers?

Does your sponsor treat you as an equal rather than as subordinate?

Does your sponsor celebrate your successes genuinely?

Does your sponsor speak respectfully to and about you?

Does your sponsor support your other relationships and connections?

Does your sponsor encourage professional help when appropriate?

Does your sponsor encourage working with others beyond just them?

Is the focus on 12-step principles rather than personal loyalty to your sponsor?

Does your sponsor model the principles they teach?

Does your sponsor share their own experience rather than dictating rules?

Does your sponsor support you eventually sponsoring others?