The Science Behind Habit Change: Navigating the Cycle of Change

In this episode of the Able to Care podcast, host Andy Baker delves into the "Cycle of Change," a powerful tool for understanding and facilitating behavioural shifts. With real-world examples and insights, Andy explores how this model helps us navigate through stages like precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance. Whether it's quitting smoking or managing self-harm, understanding where a person is in the change cycle can transform how we support them. Tune in to learn how this practical framework can guide anyone through their personal transformation journey, helping them achieve lasting positive change.

Key Timestamps:

[00:00:00] Introduction to the Cycle of Change

[00:01:16] Understanding Pre-Contemplation Stage

[00:02:34] The Contemplation Stage: Awareness and Hesitation

[00:04:50] Preparation for Change

[00:07:28] Taking Action

[00:10:06] Maintaining Behavioural Change

[00:12:30] Dealing with Relapse

Key Messages:

Understanding behaviour through the Cycle of Change: Andy explains how the Cycle of Change provides a framework for understanding where people are in the process of changing a behaviour, helping caregivers and professionals strategise their support more effectively.

Navigating relapse as part of the change journey: Andy highlights the importance of recognising relapse as a natural part of the behaviour change process, allowing individuals to build resilience and improve their confidence in achieving lasting change.

Person-centred approach to promoting change: Andy discusses the importance of ensuring behaviour change interventions are driven by the individual's needs and values, encouraging caregivers to be mindful of supporting change in a way that prioritises the person's best interests.

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