 

## 1 | Precontemplation

There may be an awareness of a behavior but not a belief that a change is needed. A person may even develop an understanding of the benefits of change, though no intention of changing exists. Typically, natural consequences propel individuals into the next stage of change. This is why it is crucial to never take away a persons natural consequences. An enabler is typically linked with an individual who dwells in the precontemplation stage.

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&gt;“You are like a river. You go through life taking the path of least resistance. We all do—all human beings and all of nature."  
&gt;  
&gt;Robert Fritz

## 2 | Contemplation

The motivation to change is increasing, though no plans to change have been made. Consideration is occurring. Their openness to a different perspective may evolve, though some will move back into the previous stage. A natural consequence increases the chance that they will question their current ideology.

## 3 | Preparation

A step further than just hearing the perspectives from others, they've sought out resources. A plan has been developed but no actions to follow through have occurred.

## 4 | Action

Acting on the plans developed. An unfamiliar zone has been explored. Abstaining from old behaviors. Areas that need additional support will be discovered.

## 5 | Maintenance

Problem solving occurs to maintain the change. Additional coping mechanisms or support are developed.  After a period of stability, motivation to maintain the change may diminish and complacency may occur regarding changed behavior.

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&gt;"Every day the clock resets. Your wins don't matter. Your failures don't matter. Don't stress on what was, fight for what could be."  
&gt;  
&gt;Sean Higgins

## 6 | Relapse

Old behavior has occurred.

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&gt;“The more one judges, the less one loves.”  
&gt;  
&gt;Honore de Balzac

This cycle can spin repeatedly. We all move back and forth through stages of change. The 'Maintenance Stage' looks different for everyone. In order to support someone else in their change you should refrain from stepping in the way of their natural consequences. Use good listening skills, allow them to talk themselves into their change. Ridiculing, insulting, threatening, unsolicited advice and scolding are often ineffective. A human's natural reaction is to counter these strategies.

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“You can talk with someone for years, everyday, and still, it won't mean as much as what you can have when you sit in front of someone, not saying a word, yet you feel that person with your heart, you feel like you have known the person for forever.... connections are made with the heart, not the tongue.”

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[https://twoforsue.com/the-6-signs-of-change-simplified/](https://twoforsue.com/the-6-signs-of-change-simplified/)