Let’s be honest—change is hard. Whether it’s hitting a fitness goal, chasing a career milestone, or sticking to a resolution, it’s all too easy to lose momentum. But research by Dr Chris Mason shows there’s a proven way to tip the odds in your favour: apply the nine factors of successful change. With the right focus, your chances of success can leap from around 30% to as high as 80%.

Why Good Intentions Aren’t Enough
Most people start strong but struggle when the road gets bumpy. The breakthrough comes from focusing on three key areas: Readiness, Capability, and Beliefs. Together, they create a roadmap to keep you moving when motivation dips.

1. Readiness: Are You Really Prepared?
Change sticks when there’s a genuine need, a vivid vision of success, enough energy to commit, and a realistic plan. Without these, follow-through is unlikely. Ask yourself:

• Do I genuinely want this change?
• Can I clearly see what success looks like?
• Do I have the energy and focus to commit?
• Is there a step-by-step plan I can stick to?

2. Capability: Building Momentum Through Habits
Success rewards those who act consistently. High-performance habits—like time management, reliability, and perseverance—help you stay on track even when obstacles arise. Failures may sting, but they’re also the lessons that shape long-term success.

3. Beliefs: The Mindset Multiplier
Beliefs are the hidden driver. When you see the benefits clearly, trust your own ability, and adopt a growth mindset, change becomes much more achievable. If confidence is lacking, support from a coach or mentor can make all the difference.

How to Refocus
The key isn’t fixing everything at once—it’s pinpointing your biggest gap and starting there. Use the nine factors as a self-check: where are you strong, and where do you need to refocus? That’s where your next step lies.

Three Quick Wins:

• Zero in on your biggest gap.
• Lock in strong, repeatable habits.
• Build belief and confidence with support when needed.

By refocusing regularly on these nine factors, change becomes less of a gamble—and more of a strategy for lasting success.

Ready to Try?

Click here to begin your free Change Success Personal diagnostic.

Need Help with your Business, Bookkeeping, Tax or SMSF requirements?

If you would like a little help, please get in touch with us for assistance. We can help with your business, bookkeeping, tax and SMSF requirements.

Is your business as profitable and efficient as it could be? Take 5 minutes to complete this free survey and uncover your top 3 strengths and top 3 improvement opportunities across 10 key business drivers. You’ll also see how your performance stacks up against global benchmarks. Start now to pinpoint where to focus for better results here.

Please also note that many of the comments in this publication are general in nature and anyone intending to apply the information to practical circumstances should seek professional advice to independently verify their interpretation and the information’s applicability to their particular circumstances. Should you have any further questions, please get in touch with us for assistance with your SMSF, business, bookkeeping and tax requirements. All rights reserved. Based on content from Mindshop, a trusted resource for business advisors worldwide. Liability Limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.