First of all you must decide whom am you are doing this for. Do you want to lose weight because Americans think, "Thin is beautiful?" Or because your spouse wants you to? Or because your doctor told me to? My suggestion is that you decide to do it for yourself. You must have the correct mindset to accomplish goals. If you are doing it for the wrong reasons or because others want you to, you may not be successful. Really set your mind to it and start from there.

From there, you should set realistic and measurable goals. For example, you want to eat more fruits and vegetables. That is not very specific. Instead you might say "I want to eat 5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day. I will keep track of this by keeping a log of the number of servings I have per day. In addition, I will have "ready-made" fruits and vegetables already cut and ready to eat, so they are convenient." When you set your goals more specifically, you have a much greater likelihood of success.

Next you put your plan of action together. Let's say you want to commit to a consistent exercise program -- not one that will be over by January 31. Decide what you like to do. If you don't like to jog, than don't jog. Find a mode of exercise that is enjoyable to you. Statistics tell us that if you do not enjoy the exercise you are doing, you will not stick with it. Next, determine when and how you will exercise. If you are going to start a walking program, for example, decide what time of day and where you will walk. Another great idea is to find an exercise partner. Commit to each other your goals and objectives, and your success will be far greater.

Keep a journal. Weight loss and other goal results are shown to be substantially better when a journal or log of some sort is kept. It is worth investing a couple of minutes a day, to help keep you on track.

Lastly, expect setbacks or bumps in the road. This is normal as nobody is perfect. Just remember what you are trying to achieve and refocus on your goals. Forgive yourself and then get back on track as quickly as possible. Having a forgiving mind and spirit will allow you flexibility and increase your chances of reaching success!

Need help on some ideas for New Year's resolutions? Here are some great ones:

• Spend 15 minutes each day pampering yourself.
• Eat more colorful foods.
• Get caught up on your health screenings, such as mammograms and prostate screenings.
• Play more with your kids and grandkids.
• Have "TV-free" days.
• Go to bed one hour earlier.
• Floss daily.
• Don't drive and dial; cut back on cell phone usage.
• Quit smoking.
• Join a yoga class.
• Have a "meat-free" week once per month.
• Keep in touch with old friends.
• Have a date night with your spouse once per week.
• Weight train 3 days per week.

Deborah Plitt, C.C.S has been in the health and fitness industry for 13 years. She has owned her own home-based personal training business for seven years and has been the Assistant Director of Conway Hospital Wellness & Fitness Center for five years. Deb is certified as a personal trainer, group exercise instructor, water aerobics instructor, weight management consultant and is an expert in arthritis and exercise. Deb is also an ACE faculty member and a member of the Life Fitness Academy.