Which stage of change is typically marked by a commitment to change within the next month?

The stage of change marked by a commitment to change within the next month is the Preparation stage. This phase is characterized by individuals preparing to take action and making plans to initiate change soon. People in this stage often have specific intentions to change their behavior and may start to take small steps toward that goal, such as gathering resources or making arrangements that will help facilitate their transition.

In the Preparation stage, the individual is actively thinking about the steps needed to change and typically has set a timeframe for action—often within the next month—as they lay out the groundwork for what they intend to do. This stage represents a critical shift from just contemplating change or being aware of the need for change to being ready to take concrete steps toward achieving it.

Understanding this stage is essential for practitioners supporting individuals in their change process, as it allows for the provision of appropriate support and resources that can enhance the likelihood of a successful transition to the Action stage, where actual changes in behavior begin to take place.