Draw a conclusion by adding the points in the pros section and then in the cons section. If the point total of the pros section is greater than the total of the cons section, you are probably ready to make a change in your life that reduces your risk of violence. If your cons outweigh your pros, you may not be motivated to make the change now. Study your list of pros and cons carefully, however, before making your final decision. You may decide to change even if your reasons not to change outrank your reasons to change.

Implementing the Change

Set a target date to begin the new behavior or reach the goal.

Identify and list the factors that will help you reach your goal and those that will stand in the way of reaching your goal.

Factors that help:

Factors that hinder:

Prepare an action plan for making the change.

a$.$ Identify alternative methods for reaching your goal.

b$.$ Gather information about each method.

c$.$ Choose the method that fits your particular situation best.

d$.$ Consider the factors that can help or hinder your effort to change $($see step $2).$

Factors that help:

Factors that hinder:

Change the lifestyle behavior that you have decided to improve by implementing the action plan you developed in step $3.$

Chart your daily progress toward your goal.

Evaluate how effective you were in reaching your goal.