The Path Towards Change
Stages of Change
Stage 1: Pre-contemplation
Pre-contemplation happens before you are even considering a change. You may be reliant on a behaviour or you just don't see a problem or a need to change.
Stage 2: Contemplation
This is the stage of considering a change. Change is being thought about, but not really in a serious way. You may even be thinking about the positives and negatives of change.
Stage 3: Preparation
You want to change! This is the time to learn about the change process, why you want to make a change for yourself, and the steps needed to proceed.
Stage 4: Action
After you have implemented your change, you have to keep it up. Maintain the progress you have made and be patient with yourself as change can be hard.
Stage 5: Maintenance
After you have implemented your change, you have to keep it up. Maintain the progress you have made and be patient with yourself as change can be hard.
Readiness for Change
Tip 1: Are you feeling motivated
Are you motivated to change for yourself? To be motivated, you most likely will be a little bit uncomfortable, but also feel hopeful as you enter this journey.
Tip 2: Preparation is really important
You need to know how you are going to change and how you will maintain the changes in your everyday life. Understanding how you are going to do this is a key step in successfully changing.
Tip 3: It is okay to move through the stages of change out of order
These stages are an outline. Some will last much longer than others and some will happen in a different order than they are listed.
Tip 4: Understanding your barriers
It is normal for barriers to come up when going through change. Look at your relationships with others and the support they can offer, systemic obstacles such as services available to you, and the emotional resources you possess.
Tip 5: Be open to new opportunities
You never know what opportunities may come up and be a good influence in your life. Be open to shifts in your attitude and be flexible in the process of change.
Resources