The Wisdom of Integrity (Precontemplation)

This is a very insightful shift in focus! I am pointing to the Precontemplation Stage, which is the first step in the Transtheoretical Model of Change (also known as the Stages of Change Model).

This stage is crucial because it's where the "bad people, behaviors, and habits" that Warren Buffett mentioned are most firmly entrenched, and the person doesn't yet see a need to change them.

🛑 The Precontemplation Stage in Recovery

Characteristic | How it Relates to the Recovery Quotes

No Intent to Change | The individual has no intention of changing their behavior (addiction, self-centeredness) in the foreseeable future (usually the next six months). 

Unaware or Under-Aware | They may be unaware of, or simply minimize, the consequences of their behavior. This often manifests as denial. They genuinely don't believe the problem is severe or that it applies to them. 

The "5 Rs" | People in this stage often express their reluctance in different ways: Reluctance, Rebellion, Resignation (hopelessness), Rationalization, or Reticence (lack of information). 

External Pressure | If they are seeking help, it is usually because of pressure from others (Society, family, employer, legal system), not from a genuine desire for internal change. 

Connecting Precontemplation to these Quotes:

 * "Nothing will so much ensure immunity from drinking as intensive work with other alcoholics."

   * A pre-contemplator cannot do "intensive work with other alcoholics" because they don't see themselves as an alcoholic or don't believe service is necessary. Their focus is still entirely self-centered.

 * "Doing the right things for the right reasons—this is my way of controlling my selfishness and self-centeredness."

   * A pre-contemplator is operating entirely on the wrong reasons (i.e., avoiding consequences or pleasing others) and is fully controlled by their selfishness. They haven't yet seen the connection between their actions and their internal peace.

 * Warren Buffett: "You can not do good business with bad people, behaviors, and habits."

   * Precontemplation is the bad business. The person's life is being run by "bad habits" (addiction) and "bad behaviors" (denial, dishonesty), leading to constant failure or misery in the "business" of life.

The entire process of recovery is about moving out of Precontemplation and ultimately into the Maintenance stage, by using spiritual principles (Higher Power, service) to replace the old, bad foundation with a new, principled one.

Would you like to explore what helps a person move from Precontemplation to the next stage, Contemplation?

Write in the comments! Please