Sponsors show by personal example how the program can lead to serenity. Sponsors do not give advice. In Al-Anon, the focus is for each of us to find our own answers. Sponsors merely guide us in knowing how to find those answers. Sponsors share what Al-Anon has done to improve their life.
Sponsors encourage the newcomer to attend a variety of meetings - and to keep an open mind.
Sponsors assist the newcomer in learning the Twelve Steps and how to apply them in their lives. Sponsors listen not for details of the crisis, but for signs of self-pity, fear, resentment and negative thinking. Sponsors share the importance of the Twelve Traditions, and explains their necessity for our group health. Sponsors do not pretend to have all the answers. A good sponsor will quickly admit when they do not know, and will suggest reading CAL together.