What stage of change are you in?

Contemplation: “I’m thinking about it.” In this first stage, you are thinking about change and becoming motivated to get started. You might be in this stage if you have been considering change but are not quite ready to start believe that your health, energy level, or overall well-being will improve if you develop new habits are not sure how you will overcome the roadblocks that may keep you from starting to change Preparation: “I have made up my mind to take action.” In this next stage, you are making plans and thinking of specific ideas that will work for you. You might be in this stage if you have decided that you are going to change and are ready to take action have set some specific goals that you would like to meet are getting ready to put your plan into action Action: “I have started to make changes.” In this third stage, you are acting on your plan and making the changes you set out to achieve. You might be in this stage if you have been making eating, physical activity, and other behavior changes in the last 6 months or so are adjusting to how it feels to eat healthier, be more active, and make other changes such as getting more sleep or reducing screen time have been trying to overcome things that sometimes block your success Maintenance: “I have a new routine.” In this final stage, you have become used to your changes and have kept them up for more than 6 months. You might be in this stage if your changes have become a normal part of your routine you have found creative ways to stick with your routine you have had slip-ups and setbacks but have been able to get past them and make progress Did you find your stage of change? Read on for ideas about what you can do next.