Changing

The article for today is about the change process. When we change our actions which are our behaviors and our thoughts which is the way we think, we begin to adjust to new ways of being. There are five stages in this change process. The first is Precontemplation. At this stage we are not ready to take action. We are ready to consider change. We may carry an active resistance to change. During this stage we need assistance to change, to leave the safety of doing nothing. This support is needed so we do not give up on ourselves. Those who support us can use empathy to look at the problem needing changing from our point of view. Talk about what you are considering changing, making it very clear that you are only considering change at this point.

Contemplation is the next stage. We are thinking we will take action soon. However, this thinking is NOT action. There are decisions which need to be made, what actions or thoughts will I change? This can lead to procrastination, to dragging our feet. This delay is not equal to action. At this stage there is a desire to change but it is mixed with a fear of failure. These conflicting feelings, wanting to change and fear, can lead to an anxiety or nervousness to change. Change threatens security, the world as we now know it. What change are you afraid to take? As you think about your fear, are you ready to take the risk to continue the change process or are afraid? Talk about these fears with someone you trust. Tell them what you are thinking and about that which frightens you.

Preparation is the third stage. This learning involves forming the specific steps to create change. What thoughts and actions will I change first, how will I get ready to change? What idea or act needs a beginning step? Think about the first steps to create changing that idea or action. Tell someone else what you are thinking.

Action is the next stage.Doing something different requires commitment; there is no simple solution. Taking action on one thought or one behavior to create change is enough for now. Promising to act on that one change will need dedication and support. You have been successful in other actions, name two. Can the passion to change you used then be applied now?

Maintenance: sustained long term effort and revised life style is the final stage in the change process. Continuing with that new thought or action will maintain the change process. Keep going on this new path. If you drop off the new way, just begin again where you were. Change will be maintained as you practice it in your new thoughts and actions.

Recovery is itself a change process. We have each already completed at least one change process. Can you name the changed thought or action which supported your recovery? Who was there to support you? What else do you need to change – name that thought or action now. Next, think about in which stage in the change process you want to place that idea or step. Review the stages of change and place that new idea or step where it belongs. Continue the very good work you have begun!!