Change can be daunting. In fact, the whole trajectory of change includes bouts of fear and resistance, anger and frustration, and, hopefully, a resolution into the next stage. James Prochaska, the author of The Transtheoretical Model of behavior change model, states that there is a route through the challenge of change.
The stages are:
- Precontemplation
- Contemplation
- Preparation
- Action
- Maintenance
While shifting from career life to Chapter X might feel overwhelming (and yes, sometimes it is), if you break it down into smaller actions, it becomes easier to navigate.
My wife, Wendy, has finally decided it is time for her to make a break from her work as an Estate paralegal. She’s actually been in the pre-contemplation stage for a while, especially since I retired a year ago. I watched as she moved into the Contemplation stage and began making plans for what is to come.
She took action by discussing her desire to stop with the managing partner last week. While her end date is still months away, I will be alert to see signs of wavering or other resistance.
We can look at change as a massive mountain or make it easier on ourselves by breaking things down into smaller parts. It reminds me of the saying, “how do you eat an elephant?”
One bite at a time.
