Here are ten principles of change as described by Stan Goldberg, PhD, on Psychology Today.

1. All behaviors are complex

• Break down the behavior into smaller parts and conquer them one at a time.

2. Change is frightening

• Examine the consequences.
• Prepare your observers, introduce them slowly to the change.
• Be realistic with goals.

3. Change must be positive

• Reinforcement works, punishment does not.
• Enjoy the act.
• Admire the outcome.
• Reward yourself when you meet your objectives.

4. Being is easier than becoming

• Activities that bring more pain than gain are the ones people drop first.
• Take baby steps.
• Simplify the process, remember the KISS rule: Keep It Short and Simple.
• Prepare for problems: make a backup plan and be flexible enough to take alternative roads when the main path is blocked.

5. Slower is better

• Establish calm.
• Appreciate the path – it’s also the journey that matters.

6. Know more, do better

• Monitor your behaviors: keep a journal to track your success.
• Request feedback.
• Understand the outcome.

7. Change requires structure

• Identify what works, eliminate unhelpful stuff.
• Revisit your plan regularly: make your plan organic, change tactics instead of strategies.
• Logically sequence events.

8. Practice is necessary

• Use helpers – ask people you trust.
• Practice in many settings.

9. New behaviors must be protected

• Control your environment, make it work for you.
• Use memory aides.

10. Small successes are big

• Map your success.
• Break the overall success in smaller successful moments, it builds self-esteem.