1. Set short-term and long-term goals, and make them measurable. If you don’t, then you’re just “hoping” for the best. If you weigh 217 lbs. and want to get under 200, concentrate on getting under 215 first. Small victories will build upon themselves.

2. Plan. That’s right. It’s as simple as that. Schedule your workouts into your daily planner, just like you would any other appointment. Stick to them, and try to exercise at the same times every week. It will become a part of your routine.

3. Imagine how you’ll feel once you’re finished with your workout. You’ve accomplished something, and endorphins are rushing throughout your body. Now imagine the way you’ll feel once you’ve reached your long-term goal. You like the way you look in the mirror. You can fit into that pair of jeans. Emotions are the driving force behind action!

4. Take a before picture. We tend to be our own worst critics and may not notice the subtle changes occurring with our workouts. You’ll be surprised at how quickly your body can change.

5. Write down your workouts, and track your progress. Seeing yourself get stronger, do more reps, or more exercises is proof you’re getting better, and getting results from the hard work you’re putting in. Simple…but effective.

6. Eat a small, healthy meal a few hours before your workout. Include a light carbohydrate like a fruit and some lean protein. You’ll be energized for your workout, and one healthy choice…can lead to another.

7. Do you something you enjoy! You should never dread working out…because you won’t keep it up. If you like the social support of a class atmosphere, that’s where you should be. If swimming gives you your time to think, then that’s where you should be. If you enjoy lifting weights, then by all means stick with that.

8. Shake it up. Do some intervals on cardio. Lift a little heavier for 4 weeks. Change something about your workout routine this week, however small it may be. It will give you the refreshing feeling of something new, and challenge your body in a way it hasn’t been challenged.

9. Work out with a good friend. You can keep each other accountable, as well as support each other.

10. Hire a personal trainer. Yes, I understand I am tooting my own horn here, but I strongly believe a good trainer is extremely valuable to potential clients. He or she can lay out a blueprint for success with both short and long-term goals. Everything, from your workouts to outside cardio should be meticulously tracked and written down to ensure progress. There should be planned program changes based on your goals every 6-8 weeks. On top of that, he or she should should have you do a 5-day food log to analyze your nutrition and give you some general advice on how to improve your diet. Most importantly, your trainer can be your biggest cheerleader when you reach milestones and keep you accountable when you get off track. This, in turn, can be incredibly motivating.