Ian Morgan Cron’s book, “The Fix: How the Twelve Steps Offer a Surprising Path of Transformation for the Well-Adjusted, the Down-and-Out, and Everyone In Between,” challenges the common perception that the Twelve Steps are exclusively for those struggling with addiction. Cron, a celebrated author, speaker, and Episcopal priest, argues that the profound wisdom embedded in the Steps is a blueprint for deep psychological and spiritual transformation for all people—from the seemingly “well-adjusted” to those who are completely “down-and-out.”
The Author’s Core Message: A Universal Path to Wholeness
The central message Ian Morgan Cron conveys is that we are all “addicts” in some form or fashion—not necessarily to substances, but to defective coping mechanisms, self-defeating narratives, and unhealthy ways of relating to the world. We are all engaged in a constant, and often unconscious, effort to “fix” ourselves, but we are looking for the solution (the “fix”) in the wrong places.
The Twelve Steps, Cron asserts, are not a punitive program for the weak, but a proven, compassionate system of radical self-honesty and spiritual awakening that leads to freedom, healthier relationships, and a richer, more authentic life. The book re-frames the Steps as a psychospiritual curriculum for shedding the ego, accepting one’s human limitations, making amends for past harms, and finally living a life rooted in connection to a Higher Power (however one understands it) and service to others.
Chapter-by-Chapter Breakdown of the Transformation
Cron organizes the book not just as a mechanical guide, but as a narrative journey through the process of awakening. Each section, often titled with a compelling, emotionally resonant phrase, delves into the spiritual and psychological application of the corresponding Step.
Desperate for a Fix (Introduction)
Theme: The illusion of control and the universal feeling of dissatisfaction.
Cron introduces the idea that even high-functioning individuals feel an undercurrent of “desperation”—a nagging sense that something is missing or broken. This feeling is the internal signal that our current “fixes” (workaholism, perfectionism, consumerism, control) are not working. This is the moment of honest self-assessment that primes us for the journey.
Drinking from the Wrong Well (Step 1: Admitting Powerlessness)
Key Concept: Admission of defeat.
The Message: Cron applies the concept of powerlessness not just to substances, but to our life-controlling issues and self-willed attempts to manage everything. We must admit that our self-reliance and insistence on controlling life have become unmanageable and that we are “drinking from the wrong well”—seeking sustenance in things that cannot sustain us. This surrender is the ultimate act of humility and the doorway to change.
Without a Paddle (Step 2: Believing in a Higher Power)
Key Concept: Hope and Sanity.
The author addresses the skepticism surrounding the concept of a “Higher Power.” He reframes it as the belief that there is a power greater than our own ego that can restore us to “sanity.” This “sanity” is the ability to see reality clearly, unclouded by our distorted self-perceptions and fear. It is the moment we realize we are “without a paddle” on our own, but that there is an ultimate current (or guiding force) to trust.
Helplessly Hopping (Step 3: Turning Over Our Will and Lives)
Key Concept: Surrender of the ego.
This step is about intentional surrender. Cron points out that we are “helplessly hopping” from one self-directed plan to the next, driven by fear and the need to be the center of our own universe. Step Three is the decision to hand over the reins of our lives—not to become passive, but to align our will with the greater wisdom of the Higher Power.
Somebody Take the Wheel (Step 4: The Moral Inventory)
Key Concept: Radical self-honesty.
This is the challenging process of a fearless and searching moral inventory. Cron encourages readers to shine a light into the darkest corners of their psyche, meticulously examining their resentments, fears, and harmful sexual/relational conduct. It’s about cataloging the “four F’s” (Fears, Faults, Failures, and Falsehoods) to understand the root causes of our dysfunctional behavior.
Hug the Cactus (Step 5: Confession)
Key Concept: Breaking isolation and the burden of secrecy.
The author uses the vivid metaphor of “Hugging the Cactus” to describe the painful but necessary act of confessing the inventory to God (or a Higher Power), ourselves, and another human being. Secrecy is the ultimate fuel for shame and self-sabotage. Confession breaks the power of the secret and integrates the true self, making the individual accountable and less isolated.
Fess Up (Step 6: Willingness to have Defects Removed)
Key Concept: The desire for change.
This is the step of preparation, moving from merely identifying defects to becoming “entirely ready” to have them removed. Cron emphasizes that we often cling to our character defects because they offer a perceived sense of safety or control. We must “fess up” to the fact that we want to be rid of them, accepting that this requires letting go of our defenses.
Okay, I Am Willing Already (Step 7: Humbly Asking for Removal)
Key Concept: Humility in action.
Once we’re ready (Step 6), we must ask (Step 7). This is a step of humility, acknowledging that we do not have the power to simply “will away” our defects; we need the help of our Higher Power. The title implies a sense of exasperation—the need to finally stop trying to fix it ourselves and humbly ask for assistance.
Mea Culpa (Step 8: List of Persons We Have Harmed)
Key Concept: Accepting responsibility.
This step is about taking stock of the damage done to others by our self-centered behavior. It is the conscious decision to cease blaming others and to create a list of those we need to make things right with. The phrase “Mea Culpa” (Latin for “through my fault”) signifies the complete acceptance of responsibility.
Look Out (Step 9: Making Amends)
Key Concept: Restitution and making things right.
This is the action step of the previous one: making direct amends wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others. Cron guides the reader through the distinction between apologizing (saying “I’m sorry”) and making amends (taking action to correct the harm). The phrase “Look Out” refers to the caution needed to make amends with wisdom and care, not just to relieve one’s own guilt.
So Help Me God (Step 10: Continuing Personal Inventory)
Key Concept: Maintenance and self-correction.
The author explains that recovery is not a one-time event but a daily practice. Step Ten is about maintaining spiritual fitness by taking a regular, ongoing inventory and promptly admitting when we are wrong. It’s the commitment to “live in the fix” rather than just “get the fix.”
It Works If You Work It (Step 11: Prayer, Meditation, and Higher Power Connection)
Key Concept: Spiritual growth and conscious contact.
This step emphasizes deepening the conscious connection with the Higher Power through prayer and meditation. Cron explains that this practice is the source of strength, guidance, and intuition needed to navigate life. The Step only works “if you work it”—it requires discipline and consistency to receive the spiritual benefits.
Epilogue: Carrying the Message (Step 12: Service and Spiritual Awakening)
Key Concept: Giving it away to keep it.
The final step is the culmination of the process: having had a spiritual awakening as a result of the steps, we attempt to carry the message to others. Cron closes by showing that true freedom is found not in self-absorption, but in service and altruism. The transformation must be shared to be fully realized and maintained.
Why This Book is Essential for Everyone
Ian Morgan Cron’s “The Fix” is a powerful and necessary reframing of a foundational wisdom tradition. By stripping away the stigma associated with the term “addiction” and repositioning the Twelve Steps as a universal pathway for human flourishing, Cron provides a deeply practical guide for:
- The Overachiever battling self-doubt and perfectionism.
- The Controller struggling to surrender outcomes.
- The People-Pleaser seeking validation externally.
- Anyone seeking an authentic, less fear-driven existence.
The book is an invitation to accept one’s brokenness, surrender the illusion of control, and ultimately find wholeness through humility, honesty, and connection.
FAQs
Q1. What is “The Fix” about in one sentence?
It’s a guide to personal transformation through the universal wisdom of the Twelve Steps.
Q2. Is this book only for people struggling with addiction?
No, it’s for anyone seeking emotional or spiritual healing, regardless of addiction.
Q3. What makes Ian Morgan Cron’s approach unique?
His mix of psychology, spirituality, and storytelling makes the Twelve Steps relatable for everyone.
Q4. What are the key takeaways from “The Fix”?
Honesty, surrender, faith, and consistent self-work lead to lasting change.
Q5. Where can I buy the book?
It’s available through major retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and independent bookstores.