Right Thoughts are threefold. Kind Thoughts which are opposed to ill-will. Thoughts of harmlessness which are opposed to cruelty. These tend to purify the mind. Right Speech deals with refraining from falsehood, stealing, slandering, harsh words and frivolous talks 4.
Action deals with refraining from killing, stealing and unchastity.
It helps one to develop a character that is self-controlled and mindful of right of others. Right Livelihood deals with the five kinds of trades which should be avoided by a lay disciple. Right Livelihood means earring ones living in a way that is not harmful to others. Effort is needed to cultivate Good Conduct or develop one's mind, because one is often distracted or tempted to take the easy way out of things. The Buddha teaches that attaining happiness and Enlightenment depends upon one's own efforts.