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Are You Playing to Win?
Or Playing Not to Lose?
THE 5 PREDICTABLE STAGES OF CHANGE AND HOW TO STAY THE COURSE
Play to Win
January 8, 2025
7:23 pm

As the new year begins, many of us set ambitious goals, full of excitement and optimism. But soon after, reality sets in, and things get harder. If you’ve ever set a resolution only to find yourself ready to quit weeks later, you’re not alone—it’s part of a predictable cycle known as the Emotional Cycle of Change. 

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The 5 Stages of Change

1. Uninformed Optimism
  1. This is the initial excitement when everything feels possible. You’re motivated, energized, and ready to take on the world.
2. Informed Pessimism
  1. Once you start the work, you realize things are harder than expected. Enthusiasm fades, and doubt creeps in.
3. Valley of Despair (aka: “I’m never going to get there”)
  1. This is where most people give up. The goal seems too far away, progress feels slow, and the temptation to quit is at its peak.
4. Informed Optimism
  1. If you push through the Valley of Despair, you start to see progress. Things begin to click, and confidence grows.
5. Success and Fulfillment
  1. Finally, you reach your goal. The hard work pays off, and you experience the satisfaction of staying the course.
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Why Most People Quit

The Valley of Despair is where most people throw in the towel. Without the right support, it’s easy to get discouraged and switch to something new, thinking, “Maybe this isn’t for me.” But constantly switching gears only keeps you stuck in the early stages of change, never reaching success.

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How to Push Through

  1. 1. Get Support
    You don’t have to do it alone. Surround yourself with people who will encourage you to keep going—not those who will tell you to quit or try something else.
  2. 2. Stay Consistent
    Even small steps forward count. The key is to keep putting one foot in front of the other, even when it feels hard.
  3. 3. Focus on the Process, Not Perfection
    Progress doesn’t always look perfect. Celebrate small wins and keep your eyes on the bigger picture.
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Moving Forward in 2025

My commitment in 2025 is to help as many people as possible stay the course. Whether you’re working on personal goals, professional growth, or something else entirely, know that the journey is worth it.


If you’re struggling to stay on track, feel free to reach out—I’d love to help you push through whether it be by providing support and encouragement, helping you overcome a challenge or simply making you feel better. Let’s make this the year we push through and reach success together.

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Category : Predictable Behavior
Tags : 5 Stages of Change Achieving Success Emotional Cycle of Change Goal Setting Strategies Overcoming Doubt Personal Growth Journey Staying the Course