You have finally made the decision that it is time to make some changes in your life. You know that the only way things are going to get better for you financially, spiritually and physically is if you sit up and take action. You know you have to put forth the effort in order to reap the rewards.

So how exactly are you going to implement these changes? You are going to have a "plan of action".

A plan of action is crucial to your success. Without a plan it is merely a thought. When you add your thoughts to paper coupled with a desire to see them become realities and proceed to do everything possible to fulfill that desire you have a template for success.

A simple equation to use when creating a plan of action from your template is: Desire + Effort = Results.

Your first step is to write down what exactly it is you desire. Albeit wealth, personal development or whatever you so strongly yearn for that you simply can no longer go without, write it down. Make your desires realistic. For example, if your desire is to lose 20 pounds, it is unrealistic to believe you can lose 20 pounds in 3 days. However, it is possible to lose 20 pounds in 3 months with a proper plan of action. It is important to note that there should be a time frame with regards to your plan. These time frames are the milestones to marking your achievements.

Now that you know what your specific desire is, list the ways in which you plan on achieving optimum results. How do I plan to lose these 20 pounds? What do I have to do each day in order to achieve my goal? What do I personally need to do to see this plan come to fruition?

Set up a schedule outlining each step that needs to be taken daily to achieve weekly goals. Be specific. Create a daily "to do" list. At the end of the week you will be able to see how much you were able to accomplish. Congratulate yourself for each accomplishment.

Make a commitment to yourself to "Work the Plan". Stay focused on the positive. List all the reasons why you will be able to achieve your objective. Utilize the strengths you possess that will help you to complete your plan.

Know your weaknesses and make a concerted effort to overcome them. Incorporate both your strengths and weakness into your plan of action. Know what you are capable of and know what your shortcomings are.

Have your own personal reward system in place. Know what each reward will be for each accomplishment that you have fulfilled throughout your plan. With every desired result you achieve there should be a reward for having done so. An incentive plan customized to your wants.

Do not let yourself get disheartened. If you have a temporary lapse or deviation from the plan acknowledge it and continue to move forward with your plan. Keep the pedal to the metal or your nose to the grindstone, just keep on taking action. Remember, this is not a race to the finish line. Your plan is your future. Take the time to nurture and understand it.

We've all heard the adage "Rome was not built in a day". Your success regarding your plan of action will not be achieved in one day either. Success is a process and the process is something you have a long-term plan for.

"You and only you can determine if the reward is worth the price you are paying for it in effort".