If you want to make a change in your life, you can help your chances of being successful by carrying out some forward planning and setting up strategies. Whether you want to quit smoking, watch less TV, cut down on alcohol or eat healthier, if you consider the following ideas and take your time, then you can achieve the changes you want.

1 Know your reasons

Why do you want to make the change in your life? What positive benefits will it bring? Make sure your reasons come from you, however. It is no good thinking you ought to be doing something. Everybody knows that giving up smoking is a good thing for your health, but if your heart is not in it, you are unlikely to succeed. So spend some time thinking about exactly why you want to change your particular habit. It’s your list, so make it personal to you.

2 Knowledge is power

Learn as much as you can about the benefits the change will bring you, as well as any difficulties you may encounter along the way. Obtain tips and ideas. Prepare yourself for any side effects the initial change may bring. This is especially useful if you want to kick the smoking habit or give up caffeine. Know what to expect, why it is happening and how long it will last.

3 Replace the habit, if you can

What are you going to do instead of watching TV? If you normally socialize in a bar, where will you go instead if you are trying to cut down on drinking? Establishing your plan now will give you greater control. Whatever you choose should be something motivational that works for you, not something you feel should work because others have done it. So it’s no good deciding to chew gum instead of smoking if chewing gum is something you despise.

4 Know your pitfalls

This is important. What things might derail you? This includes people who may try to sabotage your efforts, as well as situations you find yourself in. Be prepared and have a plan of action in place. What will you do instead? How will you cope with the comments of others? Don’t assume everybody will be supportive; people can surprise.

5 Obtain support

Having warned you about the possible negative influence of other people, I suggest you also arm yourself with people who you know will assist your changes. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from others, even if it is just to help you get away from a potentially risky situation. Also, consider any professional support as well as forums for people attempting the same change as you are.

6 Make your new habit part of your routine

Try to include it in your schedule. If you want to exercise more, schedule the times you intend to work out. With time, your new changes will become part of your life. You may need to make slight changes to your usual routine. Make sure that you know when and where you are going to act on your plans.

7 Reward yourself

It may seem simple, but rewarding steps made towards your new changes can be very motivating. Just make sure your reward in no way messes up your good work.

Good luck with your changes. Remember it does get easier with time and a setback is not a failure. It’s a learning opportunity.