Stages of ChangeHave you ever made a resolution and then lost the motivation to continue doing something about it? What happened to that initial determination that got you going? You might have been inspired by making a resolution or peruaps you had a major wake up call or life change that got you going. For others, it simply felt like the time to take charge or you were inspired by a marketing campaign that pushed you to take action. But after a while, initial enthusiasm disappears, the realities of life take hold...and you give up. YOU CAN ALWAYS START OVER! Any permanent change takes time and will have challenges. If there are specific issues and life patterns that challenge you, then these must be put in a new perspective in order to achieve on going success. Remove these burdens and roadblocks and you will become lighter mentally and physically. Here's a step by step guide for understanding the stages of change: Where do you fit in? Stage 1 – Not ready to change – not interested at all If you do not see the problem, you will not do anything about it. (For those in this stage, they may have very frustrated loved ones.) Stage 2 – Considering change You make attempts to eat less, but do not feel committed, and are unsuccessful. Stage 3 – Generating power - motivation, desire & determination You really want to change, use problem solving techniques and make a contract. Stage 4 – Making plans Gather information, break you goal into small steps and recognize achievement. Stage 5 – Make the decision – set the date You have the motivation and are ready to change. Stage 6 – DO IT! Stage 7 – Maintaining progress Monitor your mood, re-organize your lifestyle, what is or is not working? Stage 8 – Relapses – how to get control Look out for irrational thinking and situations or people that challenge your progress. General points about changing your life: There are a lot of mistakes to be made, no one makes major changes without getting off course. It is not the end of the world but it is important to keep at it. You will feel physically and mentally better if you attempt to change because you have a sense of being in charge, making you a happier person. Think of any permanent change in habits as a journey. Before you start it is a good idea to see what the do some research and get a feel for the trip. How can you prepare? What are your strengths and weaknesses that you need recognize to avoid trouble on the journey? As you set your course, you need be aware of three challenges that have nothing to do with the actual change you want to make. 1. Be willing to get to know yourself well. 2. Be open to recognizing and expressing your feelings. 3. Take time to acknowledge and respect yourself as a person, even if you do not like how you look or some trait or habit. YOU ARE STRONGER THAN YOU BELIEVE, RIGHT NOW!
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