The Stages of Change

The best-known approach to change is the Stages of Change or Transtheoretical Model, that was introduced in the 1970s as a way to help people quit smoking.

In this model, change happens slowly, and relapses are an inevitable part of the process. It has 6 stages:

Taking action means putting in the work, even when it’s hard. It means facing challenges head-on and pushing through obstacles. It means not just talking about change, but actively pursuing it.

So if you’re taking concrete steps towards your goals, no matter how small, give yourself a pat o...

• It’s not productive. Healthy reflection leads to new insights and behavior change. Unhealthy rumination keeps going and going without actually resulting in any benefit.
• It’s compulsive. Healthy reflection is deliberate and intentional: you’re thinki...