5. No plan. Without a plan, people don’t know what actions they need to take in order to change a habit. And without defined actions, it’s too easy to slip into default mode – old behavior. Knowing that you are going to lose those twenty-five pounds by cutting out all snacking in evening (your personal downfall) tells you exactly what you are going to do.

6. No support. People often try to “go it alone” when they’re trying to change a habit. That only makes it nineteen times harder. Having someone who will cajole, cheer, nag and sympathize along way helps you stick to your guns. A support buddy reminds you why you’re doing this, celebrates your successes, and keeps you pointed in right direction. A support buddy will be there to talk you out of eating entire bag of potato chips at 8:30 in evening, no matter how loud those potato chips are calling.

So there you are, ready to change a habit without struggling. It will still take hard work and self-discipline, but it will be a lot easier to do that hard work and discipline if you avoid those six mistakes.

NOTE: You are welcome to use this article online in electronic newsletters and e-zines as long as it remains complete and unaltered (including "about author" info). If use of this article is desired in print, you must first contact Lynn Cutts at Lynn@ManageYourMuse.com.

Copyright 2005 Lynn Cutts

Once every month or two, take half an hour, sit down with a cup of tea or coffee – maybe a piece of chocolate - and go through your Possibilities. Make it a fun, pleasant activity. Add to them, move them around, combine them, toss them. You don't have to act on anything. Just appreciate your fertile mind and enjoy your ideas.

A couple of things result from this approach. First, you no longer need to worry that your idea for world's most useful kitchen gadget or Great American Novel is going to evaporate. Next, by going over your Possibilities regularly, you develop appreciation and respect for your creativity. It takes away fear of creative block; if you can't think of something, go to your Possibilities file. Even if none of those ideas work, they will likely stimulate something else. Your great ideas will benefit, too, from a period of incubation and occasional re-working. (You will probably discover that some of those great ideas would benefit from a visit to recycle bin. But better to discover that before you start, rather than later.)

So don’t let those great ideas distract you from ones you’re working on, but don’t let them go to waste, either. Use your Possibilities File to keep them available until time is right.

NOTE: You are welcome to use this article online in electronic newsletters and e-zines as long as it remains complete and unaltered (including "about author" info). If use of this article is desired in print, you must first contact Lynn Cutts at Lynn@ManageYourMuse.com.

Copyright 2005 Lynn Cutts

Chocolate-loving Life Coach Lynn Cutts’ mission is to change the world for the better, one person at a time. At www.ManageYourMuse.com, she shares free tips, articles, games and newsletters to help you realize your dreams. Lynn offers one-on-one coaching, group coaching and self-guided programs to help you create your own boundless life. Lynn is certified by the Coaches Training Institute, and is a member of the International Coaches Federation.