Preparation
It is in this stage that people are really imagining themselves with a different behavior. They may begin to picture themselves with a slimmer body size or a fresher feel without smoking. They may begin to peruse quit smoking aids in the drug store or look on the Internet for information on dieting. Research shows these individuals will usually begin to actualize a change within a month. They begin making a plan, often mentally and privately, on how to change their habits. Preparers clearly see that the positives in making a change far outweigh the negatives but they have great anxiety that they will fail. Professionals target strategies to decrease anxiety as a primary focus with preparers.
Other strategies for helping people preparing for behavioral change are providing them with basic information to enhance their knowledge and skills related to the new approach. It is important not to underestimate the fact that people may need help with the basics for a new behavior and may be uncomfortable asking for information. Therefore, offering information is always a good place to start.