You and the 'Stages of Change' Model.

Some of you may have heard of this concept, others maybe not. So what exactly does the Stages of Change Model have to do with you and the decisions you make? Basically, the idea that forms the SCM is that behavior change does not happen all at once in one step. Individuals rather, tend to move through different stages on their way to successful change. In addition, how you might progress through the stages will be different than how I may. In other words, we're all different and we all progress differently.

Each individual must decide for herself or himself when a particular stage has been completed and when they're ready to move to the next one. This revelation comes from within and cannot be externally imposed as long-term, successful change is a very personal and self-driven concept.

So what exactly are the different stages? Well, here they are:

Precontemplation (an individual is not yet acknowledging that there is a problem or issue that needs to be addressed or changed)
Contemplation (the individual acknowledges that there is indeed an issue or problem but not yet ready or sure of wanting to make a change)
Preparation/Determination (individual is preparing to make a change)
Action (individual is changing behavior)
Maintenance (individual is maintaining the behavior change)
Relapse (individual has once again returned to older behaviors and has abandoned the new changes)

As you can surmise this is just a very brief summary of the various stages and a more in depth description of each can be provided if you'd like, just drop me a comment or call and we can discuss.

This model remains critical as a framework for those I engage with in decision-making around personal health and well-being. And most I come in contact with are quite surprised to learn the depth and complexity that can be involved in something that may appear at first sight as quite simple, such as losing a few pounds, starting an exercise program that can be sustained, creating a home or work environment that encourages and supports a healthier existence. Even just getting more restful sleep.

Eventually, if you're able to sustain 'maintenance' long enough, you'll reach a point where you're able to work with your own emotions and actually understand your behavior in a way that makes absolute sense and transcends a new way of doing things. In this moment, not only are your negative habits no longer an integral part of your life but a return to them wouldn't make sense to you, would seem abnormal or unlike you.

When you've reached this level in your journey of change, you'll know that you've truly left behind the old habits for the new/healthier ones that will now sustain you.