The 6 Stages of Change

There are 6 stages of change you go through to bring about change in your life.

Stage 1: Pre-contemplation- At this stage, one doesn’t realize there is a need for change. One has not accepted that a behavior is problematic or having a negative impact on them. Denial and defensiveness is present when it is pointed out that change needs to take place.

Stage 2: Contemplation- Change begins to be considered at this stage. The problem is seen and acknowledged. No steps have been taken to bring about change yet but they know change is needed. Options are considered and weighed about effort and benefits.

Stage 3: Preparation- There is a readiness to make a change. One is motivated to change and is doing research and gathering information about the problem. Create a plan to bring about change.

Stage 4: Action- Time to put what was learned in the preparation stage into action. This is the outward expression of the inner desire to change. One may be following a specific plan based on what was learned in the previous stage. Behaviors are different at this stage.

Stage 5: Maintenance- The benefits of change are realized at this stage. The effort that has been required for change is better understood and accepted because of the value of the change. Strategies are put in place to decrease the likelihood of relapsing into old behaviors. New habits are formed to secure change.

Stage 6: Termination- A complete commitment to the new habit. There is a certainty that old behaviors will not return.

Relapse is something that deserves to be discussed when talking about change. It may not be given a specific stage but it does and will likely occur when you are changing. Relapse simply means you have returned to old behaviors or habits. When it happens be kind with yourself. Take a moment and identify the trigger then find new and better ways to deal with the trigger and start anew.

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