Honestly, I need to say something here because I think the idea that it's all work and no relax is a bit outdated. I think the first few weeks should be a period of adjustment. I'm not talking about meetings or recovery but unless someone already has obligations like a job or college than I think working there way back into a normal schedule is important. I know being overwhelmed is a huge trigger for me, very easy to say "fuck it" I'm gonna have a drink and check out!

Would love to see more people chime in on this! Nudge nudge lol

This is a cool topic and I thought about this a while today;

I think I personally would break it down like this,

1. Environmental adjustment period
At first, things feel a little weird—new place, new people, new rules. If you're coming from rehab or a different living situation, it might take a little time to settle in. Most sober homes have house rules, a daily routine, and expectations for chores, meetings, and check-ins. You might have a roommate, which can take some getting used to, but it also helps with accountability.

2. Structure of the program adaptation period
Sober living isn’t just about having a place to stay—it’s about staying on track. Expect things like curfews, drug tests, and required meetings (like 12 step programs or therapy). Most houses have strict zero-tolerance policies, meaning you need to stay responsible for your recovery. While it might seem like a lot at first, structure actually makes things way easier in the long run oddly enough.

3. Meeting new peers and building your circle of support
One of the best parts of sober living is being around people who get it. You’ll be meeting housemates, going to house meetings, and maybe even joining in on group activities like working out, job hunting, or just hanging out. At first, it might feel a little awkward, but over time, these people can become your support system. It can go both ways if you're not vibing with the people in your house and there are 2 elements to look into with that. 1st is to talk to the staff there and make your concerns heard and if issues persist the 2nd is to look at my behaviors and my part, if I have one, in any of the situations at hand. Because not too much later after sober living I personally started to understand I was the jerk in the middle of like 80% of frictional encounters in my life.

4. Emotional highs/lows
Early recovery is a rollercoaster. Pink cloud anyone? If you're on it great! If it didn't come yet, give it time. It will come and there's really no official timeline. But go easy on yourself early on as you adjust back into normality.

5. Maturity and responsibility 
Unlike rehab, sober living is about becoming independent while still having support. You’ll probably need to get a job, go to school, or work on personal goals. Most houses expect you to be doing something productive—it’s not just a place to crash. It’s a step toward real life with the added benefit of being in a safe, sober space.

Sincerely hope this helps someone. I was told once if you walk into the forest for 5 or 10 years, then you aren't going to get back out overnight. It will take a few months but things always get better for those who get proactive with their recovery. Never seen it fail!