I think we can all agree that the hard part with exercising is staying motivated. I totally understand and I go through this every so often. I try to remind myself by following a few simple rules that allow me to keep on track of my goals so I can continue to be encouraged with my exercising. Some of them start with short term goals or taking baby steps. As you begin to approach these smaller goals or accomplish them, you will build confidence. You will then become motivated since accomplishing anything is very rewarding. By knowing how much time and effort you’ve invested feels great when you begin to see results. So, let me discuss the rest of the points on how you can stay motivated.

1. Write down your short and long term goals. Next, acknowledge it by saying it to yourself or someone close to you such as a friend or spouse.

Don’t get too excited, guys and women, I’m talking about cheating on your diet–after all, I’m a dietitian, not a private eye. The truth is that even if you’re committed to a healthy lifestyle (you eat well, exercise regularly, rarely overindulge), temptation is still everywhere–even with free meal diet plans you can get online. Just when you think they’re the answer and you can follow them to a ‘t’, bam, your favorite food hits you! If you’re not careful, one loving look from a juicy burger (with bacon, mayo and cheddar) across the room could be the end of you. An innocent night out for hot wings and beer may result in your being a “bad boy” (especially if somebody catches you in the act).