If you have ever made (and broken) a New Year's Resolution, you understand how difficult it can be to change a behavior. One model of behavior change utilized by physicians and therapists is the Stages of Change approach, which is frequently used to help patients quit smoking, overcome addictions, and give up a variety of other harmful behaviors. Learn more about the stages of change and how this approach can be applied to making a lasting life change.

You can find more information about behavior change and keeping your New Year's Resolutions in these great resources from About's Guide to Stress Management, Elizabeth Scott:

• How to Make Lasting Changes
• Maintaining Healthy Habits - 5 Easy Steps

_{Photo courtesy Aaron Beall}