6 stages of change.

Shift and shift again is one of the mantras I share with my coaching clients. It’s a simple saying meant to remind us to change continuously, to improve our emotional, physical, financial, professional, and spiritual selves on an ongoing basis. That being said, everyone will change and grow differently while on their unique journeys, so don’t ever feel as if you have to live your life or walk your walk like anyone else. Comparing yourself to others is the fastest way to feel inadequate; however, do find encouragement in the feats of those who are where you’d like to be one day soon. In the interim, take a brief look at these stages of change and assess where you’ve been, where you might be now, and where you may be headed in your life’s next big shift.

1. Precontemplation

In the first stage of change, you’re still in denial about the problems caused by your behaviors, thoughts, and habits. You are aloof, detached from your issues, and not considering a change at all! You feel resigned to your current state of affairs, believing that you have no power or control over your life.

2. Contemplation

In the second stage of change, you’re beginning to wonder if you do have a problem. Something isn’t right, but you’re not ready to admit or take responsibility for it. You’re more concerned with what you perceive as the losses you will face if you change. This indecision keeps you stagnant.

3. Preparation

In the third stage of change, you’re finally ready to admit you have a problem. Congratulations! This is where the healing begins. You’ll start experimenting with small changes and baby steps toward shifting, paying close attention to the results.

4. Action

In the fourth stage of change, the fun begins. Here is where you begin to create small shifts, creating a ripple effect, and turning into larger shifts! You’re sick and tired of the way things have been, and you begin to seek the guidance and tools necessary to make major, long-term changes. This is where you start creating the systems you’ll need to stay on target for your life goals.

5. Maintenance

In the fifth stage of change, you’re doing the work and trusting your systems (if they’re working well for you). Here, your focus is on stabilizing emotionally, physically, and otherwise. You’re incorporating daily routines and grounding rituals that keep you safe and sane. You’re in your self-care bubble!

6. Relapse

The final stage of change may seem like a failure, but it’s one of my favorites. Here is where you fall and have to pick yourself back up. I love this stage because it builds confidence and strength; it’s where you get to prove to yourself that you can make it through anything, pull yourself out of it, take a few steps backward, and then make leaps and bounds forward. It’s important not to give up or get discouraged when you get to this stage in the process. We all relapse on the road to recovery. Just remember, relapsing is part of the process, too! Be sure to learn from it and go back a step or two when you’re ready to start again.