Action
Only about 20% of people are really at the stage of making a specific change in their habits. This is the busiest and most demanding time for people in the change model because not only are they doing things differently for themselves, they must fight the self-doubts and reach for their internal motivators. Studies show that those in the action stage usually plan to work hard for about 3 months to see change but it usually takes much longer for the new activity to become integrated. It actually takes about 6 months of intense activity for this to happen. However, it requires a long commitment, sometimes as much as several years for an individual not to have temptations and fall back into their old behaviors. It usually takes at least 48 months for temptations to decrease among smokers. Social support and skills in self-management are necessary strategies for people in this stage. It is helpful if friends and family can offer reinforcement. We know from research that being with a peer group that practices similar behaviors can be a strong factor in helping someone adopt a new habit.