Diabetes is a testing disease and poses many challenges. Nevertheless, it can be self-managed to some extent to keep it in check and also to reduce the risk of developing complications. The following can help: 1) Lose weight: People’s blood glucose levels and insulin resistance will usually improve with weight loss, especially in people with T2DM. 2) Quit smoking: One should at least try to reduce the number of smokes per day if quitting is not possible immediately. 3) Exercise: Even a small amount of cardiovascular exercise can help with reducing blood sugar levels. Resistance exercise can also help to build muscle, which may improve insulin resistance as well. 4) Eat well-balanced meals: The focus should be on reducing carbohydrates, especially simple and processed carbohydrates, and reducing and eliminating fruit- and sugar-based juices. 5) Regularly follow up with healthcare providers: Detecting complications early allows one to take steps to mitigate the damage that diabetes is doing. 6) Check your blood sugars: This provides feedback as to how your lifestyle choices are affecting your sugar control. 7) Be informed: Learn as much as you can about how to manage diabetes, and have a discussion with your healthcare providers and other people living with diabetes.