SelfChanger methods are proven counseling techniques, like the Stages of Change.

The Stages of Change (SOCs) outline the steps to making a lasting lifestyle change. The SOCs recognize that these types of changes don’t happen overnight. The five Stages of Change are Awareness, Contemplation, Preparation, Action, and Maintenance. Each stage is important and has its own methods. Change takes time.

The Stages of Change

Awareness: In the first Stage of Change, a person may not see how their actions are affecting their lives, or the lives of those close to them. They are resistant to change. Awareness is the time to build an understanding of the factors that influence the choices we make every day.

Contemplation: In the second Stage of Change, an individual begins to consider the personal impact of the choices they make and how life could be improved by changing behaviors. Contemplation is when we get excited about the benefits of change, building motivation.

Preparation: In the third Stage of Change, a person is motivated by their desire to change, and is ready to build a plan for action. The plan is unique to what each person wants to accomplish by changing their behavior.

Action: In the fourth Stage of Change, it’s all about executing the plan and actively making changes to a lifestyle. We rely on all we’ve learned in Awareness, Contemplation, and Preparation. Often, it’s necessary to return to some of the lessons of previous stages at this time. All of the Stages of Change are available to strengthen conviction and willpower when you need it.

Maintenance: In the final Stage of Change, a person is continuing the lifestyle changes they made in the action stage. This is the stage when new behaviors have become a way of life!

An Important Note: Many people feel that they need to quit immediately, especially if caught in a tough situation. This may place them in more than one Stage of Change (for example, both Awareness and Action) at the same time. When this is the case, taking action could come before building a foundation of knowledge and skills. Therefore, it’s important to be prepared for setbacks. Don’t rush through the Stages of Change to get to Action quickly. Each stage plays a vital role in reaching your goals and preventing disappointing setbacks.