I believe in you and so should you. Today is the day to take that step forward in the right direction. It is never too late to strive and aim to be a better version of yourself. Being physically fit and in good health is important to all of us. Whether you are trying to lose a few pounds, keep off the college freshman 15 or the gym is just a normal part of your day-to-day routine, working out is something I have always enjoyed, but finding the time within a busy schedule was the tricky part, but it is possible. I wanted to achieve the “look good, feel good,” and finally one day I decided I was going to make working out a priority and get in a routine rather then just exercising here and there. As you are in the pursuit to bettering yourself, here are a few things to keep in mind to make the experience more enjoyable.

1. Do it for yourself

You don’t like your body? Work out because you want to look better for yourself. Do not start working out because you want to look good for someone else. Start making efforts to change little by little and the result will begin to show after time. There is absolutely no better feeling then hard work paying off. You got this.

2. Go with a friend

You are far more likely to actually workout when you are forced to schedule it ahead of time, and if you cancel then that inconveniences a friend. Plus, friends are a good source of motivation and encouragement to keep going. Making a game plan with a friend makes getting fit more fun.

3. Stretch before and after exercising

Something as easy as stretching is a key component to working out. If you do not stretch, you risk straining or pulling a muscle. Stretching not only loosens up your body for workouts, but it also makes you feel more relaxed.

4. Bring headphones

Exercising becomes easier if you have something to do, whether that is listening to music, watching Netflix or reading a book. Whatever will make the time pass quicker and take your mind off of the workout.

5. Cut out negativity

Quit agonizing over the things that don’t matter and the things you can’t change. First of all, cut out the negative people in your life. Surround yourself with people who only show the utmost love and support for you. Life is too short to be around those who don’t push you to be a better individual. Loving yourself is so important. Walk with a purpose, smile at everyone you pass, touch the lives of those you are in the presence of and radiate positive energy.

6. Do not set unrealistic goals for yourself

It is important to accept the fact that you are most likely not a 5-foot-9 bombshell Victoria’s Secret model. There is nothing wrong with admiring a person with a nice body, but don’t get too envious because all bodies are very different. Your body is unique and beautiful in its own way, too.

7. Focus on healthy eating habits

Personally I feel eating healthy has got to be the hardest task. However, once you make a change, you will start to feel drastically better once you stop indulging in unhealthy foods. If you find time for daily exercise you have more flexibility with your eating selections. Eating “bad” every once in a while is not going to create a problem. You want that bowl of ice cream? Enjoy it.

8. Accept the fact that you are a work in progress

Sometimes you just have to take a step back and look at the big picture. An individual’s body and health is so much more important than trying to conform to society. You can do anything. All it takes is a little positivity and determination.

“The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.”

- Walt Disney