Stage Three: Preparation

So now you’ve decided to take action; you intend to make a change in the immediate future. Here you’re implementing ‘pre-change’ steps, and planning for the next phase.

You may have looked into membership of a local gym, scouted around for some nearby group exercise classes, or researched what ‘clean eating’ actually is and set about clearing out your cupboards of their junk food stock.

As the name suggests, phase three of the behaviour change model still doesn’t entail a radical change in behaviour – slow and steady wins the race – it’s more that you’ve truly appreciated something has to change and you’ve prioritised the benefits that will come with achieving it. For example, your goal may be to lose weight...by stage three you’ve accepted that there are health concerns with carrying excess weight, you know you don’t feel good about yourself because of the weight and you understand that your current health and fitness regime isn’t working for you. Along with this, you recognise that if you make a few changes towards a more balanced lifestyle you’ll reduce the risk of developing health problems, such as type II diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and you look forward to improved self-esteem, feeling better about your body and your image.

Do this today…

1. Complete your preparatory steps: sign up to a gym, get in touch about fitness classes and make sure they fit your schedule, that you have childcare if required and that you known how you’re getting there and back if you rely on public transport.
2. Let loved ones around you know about your desire to change. Be sure that they are on your side and that you can rely on them when temptation and the desire to relapse sets in – because change isn’t smooth sailing…but like anything good, it’ll be worth it in the end. Having a positive support network is key.