As you approach your Next Act, do you find yourself filled with enthusiasm for reflection and planning, or does it bring a sense of anxiety, reminding you of past resolutions left unfulfilled? Regardless of your stance on resolutions, it’s natural to feel motivated to make changes at various points in our lives. Understanding the stages of behavioral change can be a powerful tool in this journey.
- Contemplation: The Seed of Change
The journey of change often begins with contemplation. Here, thoughts like “I need to get my finances in order” or “I should start eating better” emerge. The use of words like “should,” “need,” and “want” indicates these are still in the idea phase, without full commitment.
- Preparation: Setting Intentions and Goals
Moving from contemplation to preparation involves committing to your change. This shift is marked by a change in language from “I should” to “I am” or “I will,” which, although subtle, signifies a powerful mental shift. For instance, transitioning from “I should eat better” to “I am going to adopt a whole food, plant-based diet” is crucial. Equally important is understanding your motivation, whether it’s health, environmental concerns, or a mix of factors.
- Action: The Phase of Active Change
The action stage is where you begin to modify your behavior. Even small steps, like swapping chips for carrot sticks and hummus, signify progress. Celebrate these minor victories as they build the confidence needed for further positive changes. Gradually, these small changes accumulate, leading to significant transformations.
- Maintenance: Sustaining the Change
In the maintenance phase, your new behavior becomes more ingrained and replaces old habits. It’s crucial to remind yourself of the ‘why’ behind your change, especially when old cravings or habits resurface. This phase can be challenging, but focusing on the benefits helps solidify the new behavior as part of your identity.
- Relapse: A Step in the Process, Not a Failure
Relapses are common and should not be seen as failures. It’s natural to oscillate between relapse, action, and maintenance before a new behavior becomes habitual. If you find yourself slipping, gently guide yourself back without adopting an all-or-nothing mindset.
Your Journey of Change
As you contemplate changes, remember these stages. Be patient with yourself as you transition from one phase to another, and be prepared for occasional setbacks. Change should not be a source of anxiety; it can be a source of motivation and positive transformation. Focus on continuously aspiring to be a better version of yourself without being overly critical of where you currently stand.
We Want to Hear From You
What changes are you motivated to make in the coming years? Are you still in the contemplation stage, or have you begun to plan? Share your goals and journey with us – your experiences might inspire someone else on their path to change.
