THE FIVE STAGES OF CHANGE: WHY TRANSFORMATION TAKES TIME

Episode 11 of the Unmasked with Wesley Farnsworth Podcast

Change is one of the hardest things we face as humans. We want it fast. We want it clean. We want it easy. But real transformation — the kind that rewrites habits, heals our thinking, and restores our identity — doesn’t work that way.

In Episode 11 of Unmasked, Wesley walks listeners through five essential stages of change, a framework that reveals why growth often takes longer than we expect and why we can’t rush ourselves or anyone else through the process.

These stages came from a devotional Wesley read, but they reflect a deeply biblical and practical truth: God works in the process, not just the outcome.

1. Not Ready to Change

This is the stage we hate to admit we’re in. We know something is off, but we’re not willing to face it. This might look like downplaying a habit, rationalizing behavior, or avoiding uncomfortable conversations.

At this stage, there’s usually fear, shame, or denial — but there’s also grace. God doesn’t shame us for being here. Instead, He waits with patience and compassion.

2. Thinking About Change

In this stage, conviction begins to stir. You feel unsettled. You recognize something needs to shift, even if you’re not sure how. It’s a place of tension — the old life no longer fits, but the new one feels out of reach.

This is where the Holy Spirit often whispers:
“There is more for you than this.”

This stage is the spark that moves us toward transformation.

3. Ready to Change

Readiness is not emotional hype — it’s a deep internal decision. Something clicks. You reach the point where you say, “Enough is enough. I’m done living like this.”

This decision doesn’t magically fix everything, but it positions you for movement. Like the prodigal son “coming to his senses,” readiness is the moment the heart prepares for action.

4. Taking Action

This is the visible stage — often the most uncomfortable one.

Action looks like:

• Telling the truth

• Joining a recovery group

• Starting counseling

• Setting boundaries

• Reading Scripture consistently

• Removing access to old habits

It’s messy. It’s humbling. It’s stretching.

But it’s also where freedom begins to take shape.

5. Maintaining the Change

Most people underestimate this stage, but it’s the one that produces lasting transformation. Maintenance requires consistency, accountability, prayer, vigilance, and staying rooted in community.

This stage is slow, but it’s where character is built and where God strengthens what He has started.

WHY THESE STAGES MATTER

Wesley reminds listeners of a crucial truth:
You can’t rush someone else’s process — and no one can rush yours.

Each stage has value.
Each stage takes time.
Each stage is part of the journey.
And God meets us in every single one.

Whether you’re healing from past wounds, breaking old habits, growing spiritually, or stepping into a new chapter, understanding these stages brings clarity and encourages grace for the process.

🎧 LISTEN TO EPISODE 11

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3eHboKDDsxejrxdbH9cRfS
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unmasked-with-wesley-farnsworth/id1851549420
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Unmasked-WF-Podcast