Research shows that there are 6 stages in changing habits that are all important to your success. Here are questions to ask yourself at each stage: 1. PRE-CONTEMPLATION – How much pain am I experiencing due to this habit? 2. CONTEMPLATION – How aware am I of the problem(s) created by this habit? 3. PREPARATION – What are the options available to change this habit? What is my plan? When will I start? 4. ACTION – Am I following through on my plan?  Do I have the support I need? 5. MAINTENANCE – (note:  this is the consolidation stage & can last 6 months to a lifetime). How consistent am I with my new habit? 6. TERMINATION – Am I beyond the risks of returning to my old ways? Remember – Be kind to yourself as you change habits.  Practice makes permanent!

Juhree Zimmerman, www.strategyforsynergy.ca