1. Find Your Passion – If you’re finding it hard to stick to a fitness routine, you may just need to exercise a little creative imagination. According to motivational experts, success begins with a vision that’s so compelling it can literally pull you toward your goal. So take a few moments and imagine slipping your sleek new body into that great new outfit, your face aglow with vibrant health. Feel your confidence surge and your energy rise. But don’t leave your dream to chance. Try writing it down in the present tense, and include every detail. Keep it handy on your PDA or on 3X5 index cards whenever you need the motivation to help you act on your intentions and live your dream.
2. Get Real – In this age of lipo-suctioned, so called perfection, who hasn’t been tempted by quick fixes? But the fact remains that real beauty and truly fit bodies are the results of good everyday habits. The good news is that these habits really are attainable − and unlike some surgical procedures, there’s little to no risk or downside. The secret is setting goals that are specific, measurable and achievable. So, instead of telling yourself you’ll “exercise more often,” or “train for the marathon” start by pledging to “walk for 30 minutes every day.” To build strong bones, don’t aim for “more calcium,” resolve to try 3 new recipes to help you get the recommended 3 servings of dairy every day. “Enjoying three servings of dairy, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, is a deliciously easy way to help build stronger bones and healthier bodies,”  according to Wilma Wooten, MD, a family physician based in San Diego, CA and president of the local chapter of the National Medical Association. And always be sure to check with your doctor before beginning any diet or exercise regimen.
3. Talk Back - You’ve probably seen Dr. Phil help change people’s behavior on TV, and you’ve probably used your own brand of “talk therapy” to help friends and loved ones. So this time, why not be your own therapist and friend? By challenging self-defeating beliefs and assumptions, cognitive therapists believe we can turn our negative or inaccurate thinking into positive thoughts and actions. So, if you catch yourself saying “I’ll never be able to lose weight,” think of all the challenges you’ve already met in life and you may find you have more willpower than you think. If you’re complaining “I just don’t have the time,” tap into your passion and keep your eyes on the prize. Pretty soon, you could be talking yourself into a healthier lifestyle.
4. Mix it Up and Have Fun – If your exercise routine is beginning to make you feel like a human hamster, maybe it’s time to step off the treadmill of boring consistency. Do what you really love and enjoy and you’ll be more likely to stick with it. Try yoga, rock climbing, or imagine you’re the leading contestant in “Dancing with the Stars.” In fact, experts recommend that you vary your routine to avoid boredom and improve your fitness. For fit bodies and strong bones, the Surgeon General recommends strength training 2-3 times a week, balance training once a week and some form of physical activity for 30 minutes every day. When it comes to diet, there are lots of delicious ways to create healthy, satisfying meals and incorporate bone-building dairy foods into your daily diet.
5. Look Out for Number One – Your health and fitness are the cornerstones of an active and productive life, so why not make them a priority? Time management experts and motivational gurus recommend that you start by being clear on what is really important to you and then carefully planning your week to block off time for personal priorities. It may be helpful to mark down “fitness appointments” even if it’s just doing crunches in your own home. When you’re tempted to cancel, try re-reading your Vision Statement for the motivation to go forward. And, above all, go easy on yourself. Remember that even the most successful people have occasional setbacks.

When it comes to succeeding in any endeavor, it’s been said that “the best way to predict the future is to create it.” By combining the power of positive thinking with a realistic approach, you may be able to create the healthy lifestyle you’ve always dreamed about.