The Change Cycle
March 24, 2009
I stumbled across this website today discussing The Change Cycle. Based on the chart it seems that the last year of my life I just couldn’t get past the danger zone. Here’s more:
Stage 1 – Loss to Safety
In Stage 1 you admit to yourself that regardless of whether or not you perceive the change to be good or ‘bad” there will be a sense of loss of what “was.”
Stage 2 – Doubt to Reality
In this stage, you doubt the facts, doubt your doubts and struggle to find information about the change that you believe is valid. Resentment, skepticism and blame cloud your thinking.
Stage 3 – Discomfort to Motivation
You will recognize Stage 3 by the discomfort it brings. The change and all it means has now become clear and starts to settle in. Frustration and lethargy rule until possibility takes over.
The Danger Zone
The Danger Zone represents the pivotal place where you make the choice either to move on to Stage 4 and discover the possibilities the change has presented or to choose fear and return to Stage 1.
Stage 4 – Discovery to Perspective
Stage 4 represents the “light at the end of the tunnel.” Perspective, anticipation, and a willingness to make decisions give a new sense of control and hope. You are optimistic about a good outcome because you have choices.
Stage 5 – Understanding
In Stage 5, you understand the change and are more confident, think pragmatically, and your behavior is much more productive. Good thing.
Stage 6 – Integration
By this time, you have regained your ability and willingness to be flexible. You have insight into the ramifications, consequences and rewards of the change — past, present, and future.
I probably got to that place about 4 times. No wonder I have been so frustrated. I now find myself starting again but this time I have two allies on my side that I didn’t have all the other times: Acceptance and Happiness. I want to make these changes for the right reasons now. I am doing this not because I have to or because I do not want to disappoint the people who offered me help on my journey. I am doing this because I am in a truly happy place and want to do things to nurture myself.
