****This is a long issue with lots of information.Don't be overwhelmed. Please feel free to take it at your own pace. Each section can be worked on at the same time, or each section can be broken down into weeks or even months. Whatever works for you. I am just supplying the information-you make it work for you

Did ya' get a little too jolly? The holidays are over and not only did you eat the stuffed turkey, but now you feel like one. Been there done that! Did you know the average weight gain during the holiday season is 10 lbs? Yuck! No wonder January is kick off time for every gym. So what now? Well, stand up, shake it off and get moving. It is a new beginning and a time for a new you. This month, I am going to share with you steps you can take to get started on a healthier new you (and maybe this time really keep those resolutions!)

So let's start by playing it S*M*A*R*T
1) SET YOUR GOALS.
S=Specific
M=measurable
A=attainable
R= realistic and relevant to you
T=Timely

First off, know what you want and be specific about it.
I am a firm believer that you have to state exactly what you want out of life in order to get it. Don't just say, "Gosh, I'd like to lose some weight." But, for example, say, "I want to lose 10 lbs by March and I will do it by getting up and exercising every morning and watching what I eat."

Be firm and write out a contract to yourself that states what you are going to achieve, by what date and how you intend to achieve it. Sign this contract and hang it up where you will see it daily (make copies and carry them with you wherever you go) so that when temptation rears its ugly head, you will be reminded of your goal and can ask yourself if your actions are going to bring you closer to it or pull you away.

Find someone you can be accountable to, someone you can check in with weekly to share your progress (when I am trying to shed a few pounds for a movie, I will hire a trainer just for this reason.) Better yet, get that someone to join you in their own fitness quest.

It is also very important when setting goals to be realistic. No matter how hard I try I will never be a size 0. It is just not my body type. I have way too many curves and muscles (which I will take over being a size 0 any day.) Also be aware that 2 lbs a week is a realistic weight loss goal. Any more than that, and you risk losing muscle (not good if you want to lose fat) and water (which results in only temporary weight loss)

And please make the goal relevant to you. Make it yours. if you are setting your life goals in hopes of gaining love and approval of others, you are setting yourself up for failure. This is your life, choose how to live it.