One way to give a new habit more staying power is to treat change like a multi-step process, Schafler says.

 One way to give a new habit more staying power is to treat change like a multi-step process, Schafler says. 

Instead of seeing change as one, sweeping motion, Schafler suggests using the five-stage model of change developed by researchers James Prochaska and Carlo DiClemente.

This "unlock" can help those who want to form or stop a habit, but are having trouble doing so. 

The five-stage model of change1. Precontemplation 

At this point, you don't know you want to make a change and don't see yourself doing so in the foreseeable future. You're unaware of how your actions are impacting your life and are more concentrated on "collecting experiences."