I'd say it is quite difficult to break a mold one builds within a company. I'd suggest he find an outside pursuit that he is in control of and set himself challenging goals. Without professional support, some form of journaling one's intent and progress can be a way to maintain a self-responsibility and to enforce personal rules. Some of the standard business self help books, like 7 Habits have some tidbits and techniques to harvest. I'd also suggest Flow as providing a valuable perspective.