Whether it’s about getting married, changing jobs, or losing weight, everyone goes through five stages of change, as identified by behavioral psychologist James Prochaska. Change starts with pre-contemplation, where you’re just kinda, sorta starting to think about making a move. And it ends with maintenance, where the change is now an estab- lished habit, part of your everyday life.

THE FIVE STAGES

Stage 1: Pre-contemplation

Stage 2: Contemplation

Stage 3: Preparation
Stage 4: Action

Stage 5: Maintenance

It’s safe to say that many dieters want to go straight to Stage 5, where they envision them- selves happily eating salads and saluting admirers as they run on the beach. But while I can’t shortcut the stages for you, I can help you move through them with purpose and energy. So let’s jump in—because in my pool, the water is perfect for you.