We are all affected by change at some stage in our life. Change is the one thing in life that is predictable - there will always be changes and nothing ever stays the same. In psychology, we often talk about the six stages of change and try to identify what stage our clients are in when they are considering making some form of adjustment to their life. Once we know what stage someone is in, this information can help us to understand what needs to be focused on to assist them in progressing toward their desired goal. 

Here are the six stages:

1. Precontemplation - no intention of making a change.

2. Contemplation - aware a problem exists, however, no current commitment to action. 

3. Preparation - intention to take action. 

4. Action - active modification of behaviour.

5. Maintenance - sustained behaviour replaces old behaviour.

6. Relapse - fall back into old patterns of behaviour. 

These stages can be simplified even further to:

1. Not worried.

2. Thinking.

3. Trying.

4. Doing.

5. Sticking to it.

6. Ooops. Learning.

When you think about a big life goal that you would like to achieve, what stage do you think you're in?

You may also enjoy reading the hero's journey - inspiration for change or you may be interested in some help in changing career.