Every year millions of people make a resolution to improve their diet and exercise. The goal is always the same, to lose weight and feel better. However, for many, it doesn’t tend to work out that way for one reason or another. Work, family, and time are but three of the many excuses used for lack of success.

But this year is different. This year, you will succeed in improving your diet and exercise plan. How you ask? By making a blueprint and sticking to a plan.

That’s right. By creating and then sticking to a plan you are more likely to follow through and achieve the success you desire.

To begin with, what is your actual goal? Write that down. It is important to be specific as leaving the goal too vague provides the opportunity to waver on what success looks like. Additionally, when do you realistically want to achieve these goals? Be reasonable with a time frame here because too narrow of a window leads to giving up.

Next, write down the steps necessary to achieve the previously stated goal(s)? Meaning, what must you do to lose the weight, get to the gym more frequently or just exercise in general? Again, it is good to be detailed in the action steps needed. This will greatly assist the process of moving you toward your diet and exercise goals this year.

Then write down all your potential excuses for not achieving your goals. Look at them. Realize they are only excuses and then crumpled them up and throw them in the trash where they belong. This year you will not succumb to excuses and will succeed.

Finally, time to take the action steps you already wrote down. This is where you will get in the habit of creating and sticking to a menu and shopping list for more healthy foods. Shopping on impulse can be problematic. Going to the grocery store with your plan in hand will help your tremendously. Map out your week, see where you have wasted time. It is in these time windows that the opportunity for more exercise exists. Yes, certain time points in the day may not be possible, BUT this shows you time does exist in your day for more exercise. Make the necessary small changes in your schedule to integrate exercise. It really does not matter time of day. What is important is that you just get it done.

There you have it, a blueprint for diet and exercise success this year. Should you still not be sure or feel you need help, this is where professional help in the form of a nutritionist or personal trainer can help. Reach out for assistance and help with accountability to help you achieve your goals this year.