What is the goal of maintenance in behavior change plans?

The goal of maintenance in behavior change plans is to ensure the long-term achievement of the desired behavior change. This phase comes after the initial stages where a person has begun to adopt new behaviors. While it might involve implementing new habits and monitoring progress, the primary focus during maintenance is on sustaining those changes over time to prevent relapse and solidify the new behavior as part of one's lifestyle. This emphasis on sustaining behavior is crucial, as it not only supports individual improvement but also helps in creating lasting health benefits.