Stages of Change Part 2

1. Identify ways to feel in charge of the process.
You may not be in charge of it all but there are usually areas where you can begin to exercise some level of competence or sense that you are managing it instead of having it manage you. Taking even a small positive action helps you feel empowered and less like a victim of circumstances.
2. Realize that there are stages to change.
Let yourself be where you are and adopt appropriate solutions for that stage. Creatively choose how you want to navigate the territory you are in at the moment.
Initiation
• Dissolution of the familiar
• Shock, confusion, doubt, fear and anxiety
• Aspects of identity and life are shifting
• BREATHE; grieve losses; indulge in extra tender loving self-care
• Allow and process feelings; let go of resistance
• Remain open to learning new skills to rise to new challenges
Reactivity
• Anger can be a sign that your energy is thawing out
• Process all feelings related to change
• Conscious awareness enhances strength and personal power
• Healthy choices re: channeling feeling facilitates healthy control
• Anger can be useful to mobilize new action plans
Integration
• Integrate new abilities, skills, emotions or beliefs
• Acclimate to your new circumstances
• Enjoy arriving past the trauma
• Congratulate yourself on new learning!
• Identify and emphasize strengths discovered