We often use this phrase concerning our learners. "Set them up for success!" or "Start small" or "Provide lots of frequent reinforcement now, and fade it out over time!"
This is all true, but it doesn't only apply to the people we are supporting, who are the centre of our programs. It applies to the people who are supporting them, day in, and day out, as well as ourselves.
Changing behaviour is not necessarily hard, but it can take a long time. Very rarely will things change overnight. This is true for our learners and ourselves, and it is important to remember! It helps you remain optimistic and, more importantly, realistic.
Just because something hasn't changed overnight doesn't mean the seed hasn't been planted... (keep that in mind!)
So think about this, the next time you want to start teaching a new skill or changing something in your own life - set yourself up for success!