Cycle of change
When we are thinking about changing any lifestyle behaviour it is helpful to think about the stages we go through.
Cycle of change model
Pre-contemplation: We either don’t admit there is a problem, don’t feel we need to change our lifestyle, are too overwhelmed with the thought of change, or are discouraged by failed attempts in the past so we don’t even think about changes.
Contemplation: We are aware that we need to make some changes but have mixed feelings about it – in some ways we want to make changes but in other ways we don’t. We start to think of the advantages of making the changes.
Preparation: We have started to make some decisions and think about how we are going to make the changes.
Action: We are now ready to make the changes. We have plans in place, but it is important not to underestimate the commitment this stage takes.
Maintenance: Our ‘new’ habits start to replace our ‘old’ habits. Remember temptation is always there to lapse back into those old habits.
Relapse: It is human nature to have relapses. We must treat these as temporary and get back on the cycle again as soon as possible. Hopefully any relapse will only result in us going back to the action or preparation stage and not contemplation or pre-contemplation.
