When changing a behavior, people typically go through the following stages:

1. Precontemplation, where they are often ignoring or denying the problem
2. Contemplation, where they weigh the pros and cons of making a change
3. Preparation, where they decide what they'll do to make the change
4. Action, where they take steps toward the goal
5. Maintenance, where they stick with it for the long term
6. Relapse, where mistakes and setbacks happen, and people must decide whether to keep going