One thing I know is that when we are not ready for change we will do anything possible to avoid it. We will drag our heels, make excuses, delay progress, have sleepless nights and even lie to ourselves, and others, if need be.
This is human nature. Change is scary. All change. And if it’s change we don’t want then watch out we will run in the other direction.
Sometimes we want changes but we’re not mentally ready for this change. Again, this is human nature. I often use the model cited in the book Changing for Good by Prochaska and DiClemente.
They outline our six stages of change:
- Stage 1: Pre-contemplation
- Stage 2: Contemplation
- Stage 3: Preparation
- Stage 4: Action
- Stage 5: Maintenance
- Stage 6: Termination
Forcing change to occur when we’re not psychologically ready may result in repeated failure or further delay future success. We can be inspired and dream big dreams, but if we want to make them a reality, we need to be ready for change.
Part of my work as your coach is to help you determine if you’re ready for the change that you want, and part of my job is to help you get ready for change and help shepherd you through change. But don’t ever be afraid to share when you’re not ready. And don’t ever feel that you have to take on another person’s change as your own. Change is very personal and when you’re ready to embrace it, it’s very liberating.
When we are finally ready for change, inspiration and motivation become allies in helping us. Formulating your own definitions of motivation and inspiration and understanding how to channel and sustain them will start the process of change and increase your chances for success.
How to Be Career Happy? Be Ready When You’re Ready