In the Stage of Preparation, an individual will finally accept responsibility to change his behavior. He evaluates and selects techniques to change. Instead of just gathering information and slowly working through ambivalence, the Preparation Stage will focus on finding the best actions to take to overcome the problem, like narrowing down a treatment program online and making the calls to set up a drug and alcohol evaluation.

If he is to be accountable, he will draft a plan of action and begin to make those needed changes. He will also work on building his confidence and strengthening his commitment to change. He sets a clear timeline for change, rather than the previous ambivalence.

In Preparation, usually he will have the intention to change within one month, however, recycling and vacillating through stages and longer timelines should be expected. We can describe this person in Preparation Stage as “willing to change.” At this stage, he is also anticipating the many benefits of changing behavior. There is also the acknowledgement that the continuing journey will present challenges and obstacles. He begins to plan and prepare accountably for his future.

Stage Three: Preparation (Ready)

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