During Tracey's time in prison, he noticed that many of the prisoners were returning back after their release. Most were coming back in less than a year of being released.
He compiled a 20 question survey that he handed out to returning prisoners to fill out. A survey he started with 8 years left on his sentence. In that span, he collected over 150 prisoners answers. His plan was to implement the top 10 answers he received back upon his release. He was the first case study in many others to come. Tracey compiled these ten steps for others to follow.

The place where you live must be crime and drug free, and the people who live there must support your goal of becoming a productive person.

Finding a job is an investment that pays off in security for you and your family. If your first job is less than ideal, stick with it until you find something better.

Kids know when parents aren’t being truthful. Own the fact that you may not have been an ideal parent so you can honestly commit to doing better.

Associate with people who share your goals. Avoid those who don’t have your best interests at heart. You know who they are.

Don’t be ashamed of sharing your experience. Let people know where you’ve been and where you’re heading now. Those who truly support you will be able to handle it.

Make a habit of setting goals for yourself. Write them down. They can be small goals at first. The important thing is to make goal-setting a part of your life.

Choose a mate who can help you stay drug-free and employed. The right life partner can have a huge impact on whether you succeed.

You have to believe that you have what it takes to turn your life around. If you don’t, no one else will.

Be mindful that the ways you think and act have an effect on others, but be patient with yourself as you work to change old behaviors.

The prison system is a big business. They’re waiting for you to fail and will always have a bed ready when you do.