How to Fire a Sponsor

 Firing a sponsor should not be like a scene from the Apprentice TV show. The goal is not to make this other person feel bad or to accuse them of being bad at their job. Firing a sponsor should be done tactfully and with respect. It is best to keep things simple and there is no need to go into elaborate explanations. Most sponsors will be fine with just hearing that their sponsee wants to try somebody else. Life in recovery is all about honesty so it is not recommended that people make up lies about why they wish to change sponsors – even if these lies are well intentioned. It is best to tell the sponsor face to face. Sending emails, text messages, or leaving a message on an answer machine is cowardly and not a sign of emotional sobriety. It is important to thank the sponsor for their efforts. They will have been providing their services for free. Even if the relationship has been a bumpy one it is best to leave on good terms. The sponsee should not use this as an opportunity to make negative accusations about their sponsor.