smooth the path for (someone or something)
To cultivate favorable conditions for someone to do something or for something to happen. I always take the kids on a fun trip during the last week of summer to smooth the path for their return to school. I've been creating detailed notes about my work routine to smooth the path for whoever will replace me.
smooth the ˈpath/ˈway
make it easier for something to happen: The President’s speech smoothed the way for talks with the rebel leaders.