Focus on small steps…they make a huge difference.

Make one small change each day to lead you toward your goals. Practice that change until it becomes a habit, then add another small change. That way, you're building on successes each day, getting one step closer to your goals.

Here are some examples of small changes:

-Don't use mayonnaise when you make a sandwich, switch to mustard or low fat mayonnaise

-Skip the butter, why add the extra fat? Use jam or peanut butter instead.

-Use a pedometer to gage your daily steps, challenge yourself.

-Switch white bread for whole grain.

-Replace soda or that 2nd or 3rd coffee with water.

-Take the stairs, park farther away from the store.

-Add a salad to you lunch and dinner with a healthy dressing.

Visualize your Goals.

Have a clear vision of what your goals are-both short and long term. When you start to see changes, you will be motivated to keep moving forward. Post a picture, phrase, or affirmation to remind you of the positive benefits that will occur. This helps you to want to change and strengthens your commitment to your goals. Weekly, make a plan.

Have a plan of action.

This way you will know what you're going to do all week to work to reach your goals. For best results, make your plan specific. "I will go for a 30 minute walk before breakfast on Monday, Wednesday and Friday".

Tip: My clients that start Monday with exercise and who get it done in the am each day are more dedicated. This way, no excuses can come up later in the day. People who workout in the morning have higher success rate at sticking with it than the ones that schedule their workouts at night. If that fits into your lifestyle that is great, if not, we need to find what will work for you to stick to!

Associate with friends who make healthy choices.

This really helps to have other people around you who are health conscious. With outside support, you're more likely to succeed and to stick to your goals. For instance, find a friend or neighbor who enjoys walking, this can be a great motivator. Or take time with friends to bike or power walk.