The stages of change is a constant in our world that we experience, rather we accept it or not. In all stages of life, we continue to adapt change, grow, and evolve into the next chapter of our life and individual self. But change
can be very difficult to even know where to begin, and when we do know the first step, taking
the actual step can be the hardest step we take in the stages of change.
We can tell ourselves all the right things, have the right thought process, but the action step can be our hold up. Let’s
break down the model of change in more detail to help you further understand how change happens and lead you to take the first step.
There are 6 Stages of change in the Change Model, according to Miller and Rolinick, & Prochaska and DiClements,
are as following: Pre-contemplation, Contemplation, Preparation, Action, Maintenance, and
Relapse. Pre-contemplation can be described as not being aware there is a problem at all,
justifying our own or others actions. Contemplation is where one begins to become aware
there could be an issue and something doesn’t sit right; however, they are not aware of the
actions to take or if they are ready to make the change. Preparation is when one will begin to
brainstorm on the steps needed to adjust and really begin to organize for change.
Action is the step where one can see some progress, this is where all the preparation of brainstorming and
processing beforehand can payoff, even with small steps. Maintenance is the fifth step,
allowing you to evaluate the previous action step and keep yourself on track to make the
ultimate change you are working towards.
Relapse is the step where someone begins to fall back into old habits, and lose sight of the why behind wanting to change in the first place. Even though this step may feel like a major setback, it is an important step in the change model and
is critical for someone to truly make the change they desire. During relapse, it is important to
reflect on what was missing, or slide us back into old habits. This will provide further
information in helping one become consistent in making their change a new reality.
Now that we have clearly defined the 6 Stages in the Change Model, I want you to identify one
change that you desire to make in your life, big or small. After you have your change in mind,
process, reflect, and distinguish where you currently fall in the change model. Allow yourself to
be honest; there should be no judgment of yourself. Wherever you lay in the model, start there
and work your way through to the end. Be gentle with yourself and don’t be afraid to restart.
After all change takes time and isn’t linear.
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