One of the most important steps is to develop a Diabetes Management Plan. Be sure to identify and WRITE DOWN your goals.

1. Work with your doctor to develop a diabetes treatment plan, and follow it - including eating right, controlling your blood glucose, and getting enough exercise.
2. Identify short-term actions you can adopt toward a healthier lifestyle, including ways of exercising regularly and eating healthfully.
3. Plan for changes in your normal routine.  Know what to do when you are ill or traveling.
4. Devise a plan to change unhealthy habits, such as overeating or smoking.
5. Establish long-term steps to prevent or delay problems that result from diabetes. Talk with your doctor to make sure your blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol levels are under control. High blood pressure and high cholesterol raise the risk of heart disease, a particular problem in diabetes. 
6. Organize a support team that includes your healthcare team, family, online community or other resources.
7. Find ways of checking your progress over time and keeping your diabetes management team up to date on how your treatment plan is working.

(Source: DiscoveryHealth.com)