What does the Preparation stage signify in the Stages of Change Model?

The Preparation stage in the Stages of Change Model signifies a critical moment where an individual has made the decision to change and is actively preparing to take action. During this stage, the person is likely developing a solid plan for how they will implement the desired behavior change. This may include setting specific goals, determining necessary steps, or gathering resources to facilitate the change process.

At this point, individuals may also be more likely to commit to a timeline for initiating the change and might even start taking small steps toward their goal. This stage is characterized by readiness and planning, marking a departure from mere contemplation of change to a proactive approach in preparing for the change to take place. Thus, the Preparation stage sets the foundation for successfully moving into the next stages, where the actual change begins to occur.