What is a common characteristic of the maintenance stage in behavior change?

The maintenance stage in behavior change is characterized by the continuous practice of healthy behaviors. This stage follows the action phase, where individuals have actively modified their behaviors for a period of time—typically at least six months. In the maintenance stage, the focus shifts to sustaining these new behaviors over the long term to prevent relapse into old habits.

Individuals in this stage have often developed confidence in their ability to maintain the changes they've made. They incorporate these healthy behaviors into their daily routines, making them part of their lifestyle rather than just temporary modifications. This ongoing commitment is essential for long-term success and overall well-being.

The other aspects of behavior change, while they may play a role in an individual's overall journey, do not accurately capture the essence of the maintenance stage. Avoiding triggers and relying on external motivation are more aligned with earlier stages of change, and simply replacing old habits with new ones does not fully encapsulate the ongoing commitment that defines maintenance.