change your ways

change (one's) ways

To start behaving in a different, usually preferable, way. After I got in yet another fight at school, the headmaster told me that I had to change my ways or else I'd be expelled. No matter how old you are, there is still time to change your ways.
See also: change, way
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

change your ˈways

start to live or behave in a different way from before: I’ve learned my lesson and I’m going to try to change my ways. It’s unlikely your boss will change his ways.
See also: change, way
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • change (one's) ways
  • mend (one's) ways
  • mend one's ways
  • mend ways
  • mend your ways
  • clean act up
  • clean one’s act up
  • clean up (one's) act
  • clean up act
  • clean up your act
References in periodicals archive
Now Staffordshire County Council is warning other parents who follow suit: "You will face the same tough action if you don't change your ways."
Local News Extra: Mum kept kids out of school; TAMWORTH: Warning after parent nearly jailed over truant children
I wish I could sing a song with you, But I can do a bit of barking, Or sit up and beg for you, Which will get you laughing Perhaps tomorrow the sun will shine And we can go out walking, We shall have the summer here soon, That will cheer up your sorrow, So come on change your ways And think of tomorrow.
Daily Poem
But the Newtown pensioner said she believes it is never too late to change your ways and hopes to live longer with her more healthy lifestyle.
You can't be too old to change your ways and I think it will make me more healthy."
70-year habit goes up in smoke
Change your ways, clean up your act, Modernise or die.
TUC at Brighton: Tone's ode