Processing change can be difficult and confusing.
The Stages of Change is a 5-step framework that shows us the process of change. Everyone who has an unhealthy habit or coping tool is in one of these stages - so understanding where a person is and what to consider next is critical to moving forward.
1: Hiding from Change (Precontemplation)
“Ignorance is bliss” I can’t think of anything I need to change, or I’m not ready to change.
2: Thinking of Change (Contemplation)
“Sitting on the fence” I’m thinking of changing. I don’t know whether or not I want to change.
3: Preparing to Change (Preparation)
“Counting the cost” I’m ready to change. I’m willing to change. I need to think through what changing will cost me.
4: Making a Change (Action)
“Staying on track” I’m making changes. I have a plan of action in place, and I’m moving. I’m afraid that I might go back to my old ways.
5: Maintaining a Change (Maintenance)
“Staying on track” I’m making changes. I have a plan of action in place, and I’m moving. I’m afraid that I might go back to my old ways.
<< Regressing from Change (Relapse)
“Falling off track” I have made changes in the past, but I have made the same mistakes all over. I have “fallen from grace.” I feel a little helpless, and I need help getting motivated to get back on track. I’m ashamed of myself
Helping Someone Make a Change
If you work with hurting people, understanding the stages of change can be relieving -- it takes some of the frustration out of the early stages. And using the right techniques for people in each stage will empower you to help someone overcome their pain and their unhealthy coping tools without doing further harm. Your role is to help determine what stage of change they are in, and then to utilize some practical strategies for how to encourage someone in each stage.
We’ve created a free PDF you can use to help you learn more about identifiers and growth techniques you can use throughout each stage. Just click the button below to download.
