Today we looked at how people could make positive changes in their lives and ways to do this. This group’s ethos is very much built upon movement and progressing to a place of hope from low points of despair.
For some, the very thought of change invokes a fear of the unknown. This can be really debilitating and make you feel like you are stuck in a situation you want to change but are scared to (C.S. Lewis picture quote above very much captures this). Once you make the decision to change it can feel like you are taking a leap of faith, trusting that you have made the right decision and are able to deal with whatever comes your way.
We used the ‘Stages of Change’ template for today’s exercise with people using the model below;
e.g.
1. Pre-contemplation – I enjoy smoking, I don’t have a problem with it.
2. Contemplation – Smoking could be bad for my health?
3. Preparation – Evaluating how to stop smoking.
4. Action – Going to smoking cessation group to learn tools and stop smoking.
5. Maintenance – Sustaining recovery and not giving in to a lapse.
In conclusion, we do realise how daunting change can feel but if you plan it out in steps like the above tool you are giving yourself a far better chance of achieving your aims.
