Your Readiness to Change

Psychologists have studied cognition as it relates to change for years. There is a general system to measure behavior change and readiness/willingness to change. Unless you study in this field, it’s likely you are unaware of how it works, but I am going to lay it out so you can pinpoint where you are and determine action steps to keep you moving forward.

As a health professional, there are certain ways we are trained to intervene based on the Transtheoretical Stages of Change Model. This model consists of 6 different stages (one of which we all fit into). Based on the stage the client or perspective client is in, the health professional can meet them and help guide them to success.

If you are in the:

Precontemplation Stage - You aren’t even considering making changes toward a healthy lifestyle in the near future (measured as the next 6 months).

Contemplation Stage - You’re planning to make changes in the next six months. In this stage, studies have found that the pros and cons of changing are often rated as equal.

Preparation Stage - You’re planning to take action within the next month.

Action Stage - In this stage, you’ve taken specific action toward a healthier lifestyle over the past 6 months.

Maintenance Stage - In this stage you’re maintaining the progress you’ve made, but without many changes to your regular programming.

Termination Stage - In this stage, you find yourself without temptation, with 100% efficacy.

As a trainer, until an individual reaches the Termination Stage, they are going to benefit immensely from a trainer or nutrition expert. Through specific behavior change techniques, Behavior Change Specialists are trained to meet you where you are and help you achieve your goals despite barriers.

The majority of the population is in the Precontemplation or Contemplation stage, with some in the Preparation stage. The minority reside in Action, Maintenance, and Termination. If you know you need to make changes or want to make changes, reach out to someone that can help you figure out how to meet you where you’re at. You’re never too far gone to come back from whatever place you’ve wound up, but I assure you, you matter too much to stay there.