Now you've got your SMART goal - your Master Goal for where you want to be in the future and your baby steps or mini-goals that will get you there and the pieces in your starting Action Plan, it's time to pick a date and start.

How complex your mini-goal is and your Action Plan depends on your situation and what you want to change. For some who are very depressed, it could be as simple as getting out of bed or brushing your teeth. For others working on weight loss, it could be adjusting what you eat in the day.

So this is what an Action Plan might look like for the week.

TexMyACTION PLAN

Master Goal: I'll take better care of myself by Dec 11 - I'll brush my teeth twice daily, comb my hair daily, and shower twice a week.

Mini-goal: I 'll brush my teeth once a day for at least 4 days out of the week.

Action Plan This Week

Start Date: Saturday, November 9

Possible barriers: I can't find my regular toothbrush: I need to replace it but I don't have the energy to get out of bed and go to the store to get one.

Solution: I'll use my travel toothbrush and toothpaste until I can get to the store or have someone get me a new toothbrush.

Reward when I reach my mini-goal this week: Each day, I'll watch my favorite show on Netflix after I brush my teeth.

Record what I do: I'll record it on a piece of paper I've created with the day of the week and a box to check when I've done it.

...

Putting your Action Plan into action!

Putting all the pieces together and setting the start

TexMyACTION PLAN

When to put your plan into Action

Pick a day. Give yourself enough time if you have to do something to get ready, e.g. get something from the store.

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