When it comes
to negative behaviors often it may be consequences that can start the process
of change in the beginning. For example, someone who is overweight might
finally decide to go on a diet when they realize that their clothes no longer
fit. Negative things can start the change process but quite often the negative things
alone may not be enough to keep motivation going strong on a long term basis.
At some point, change is sustained by the positive feelings that often come
with experiencing progress over time. For example, the person who decided to go
on a diet to lose weight may gain momentum and motivation when he or she starts
to feel better about the way how good it feels to be thinner and how good
things may start looking in the mirror once the pounds start coming off. In the
beginning of the change process exercising and eating salads might start out as
a dreadful chore but with time and success, going to the gym and eating healthy
can actually start to become a positive, joyful experience. In the long term,
it is the people who learn to enjoy lifestyle change that stick with it and
stay strong
Of course, this
same idea is often true with addiction and other bad habits. Often it is the
consequences (arrests, family problems, job loss) that might start someone with
the process of getting help. However, the person who sticks with the change
process for substance use issues eventually should start to learn to enjoy
their new lifestyle without abusing substances over time. Positive progress
sustains motivation.
With this
concept in mind review some of the following questions for thought and
discussion about a substance use issue or other bad habit you may be working on
changing:
What consequences got you thinking about
making changes?
Even if you are still struggling now,
what are some positives you can see about making lifestyle changes?
Looking toward a better future: What do
you specifically think you need in your life to really appreciate and to stay
with the process of changing for the better?
