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Precontemplation

People in this stage are not even thinking about changing a habit or unhealthy lifestyle. Some 40% of individuals are in the precontemplation stage which helps to explain why health promotion programs may not reach goals set for health outcomes. Because individuals in this stage have probably had multiple attempts to change behavior unsuccessfully, they often blame themselves and may be demoralized. These people see the negatives rather than the positives of behavior change and are not ready for action.

It is important that people in this stage understand research showing that past failures actually increase a person’s chances of success. Success in smoking cessation comes after several attempts because it has prepared them for the strategies that work. Statistics show that on average, people stay in the precontemplation stage for approximately 2 years.