Going into college, everyone warns you of the infamous Freshman 15, but they never really tell you how to avoid it. After my first year of college, I've definitely have been hit with a few extra pounds. I was sick of feeling tired, sluggish, and unhappy all the time. So, I decided that I wanted to not only lose the weight I gained but also get in the best shape I've ever been in. These are just a few practical tips I used to stay motivated to workout, eat healthier, and ultimately live a better lifestyle.

1. Consistency is key.

I think the hardest part of working out is consistency. You feel that motivation for the first two gym sessions and then you never go back again. It takes 4-8 weeks to see results from exercise, so set a goal for yourself, such as one month, then mark those dates on your calendar and push yourself to hit that. Those 4-8 weeks and that one month will go by whether you workout or not, might as well make those days count. From then on the satisfaction of seeing your results will be your motivator!

2. Start small.

If you're someone who has difficulty sticking to regimens and routines, start small. Make the choice every day to swap out some unhealthy choices for better ones. You can still get your usual venti caramel frappuccino with whole milk and whipped cream, but try a grande with skim milk and without whipped cream instead. Eventually, these little choices you make will add up.

3. Find the time.

It's difficult in college, but you do have enough time to do everything you want if you manage your time well. What I've found helps is to write in when you're going to the gym in your planner. Treat it like a class. Eventually, it'll become routine and just another thing you check off your to-do list. But remember that it's so important to listen to your body. If I worked an eight-hour day and I feel like I'm going to collapse, I don't force myself to go. Instead, I'll let myself rest and go a little harder the next day.

4. Try new things.

Whether it be spin class, following Youtube videos at home, going to the gym, or running outside, try it all. I promise that you'll love at least one. If you find working out boring and tedious, you're going to stop. I love Zumba, Barre Class, and going to the gym. It took me awhile but by using all the machines, going to the different classes, and trying out different instructors, I found what I liked. It's also really fun going with your friends and challenging yourselves with something new.

5. Treat yo' self.

I've found that the gym is the one place where I feel like I truly get me time. Even surrounded by people, it's a time where I feel alone and can escape for a little bit. I get excited to workout by creating a playlist of songs I want to jam out to or I don't let myself watch that next episode of "Riverdale" until I go to the gym. So working out feels like a treat to me. And if I go to the gym a certain number of times I'll treat myself with some Kombucha or Starbucks.

6. You are more than a number.

I could not tell you the last time I stepped on a scale. Because at the end of the day, it doesn't matter to me. The number on the scale may increase because you're gaining muscle and not because you're fat. At one point, I was obsessed with calorie or macro counting; however, it creates such an unhealthy relationship with food and yourself. Now, I still look at the labels but only to be more conscious of what I'm putting into my body.

7. Do it for you.

Yes, I workout because I want to feel confident in my body, like how I look in my clothes and feel good in a bikini. But it's so important to actually want to workout because you want to be healthier and feel better both externally and internally. Exercising releases endorphins which are a chemical that fights stress. Therefore, it gives you natural energy and it makes you happier!

8. Love the body you're in now.

Abs won't form after doing 100 crunches and 20 pounds won't come off in a day. It's really a lifestyle change; quick fixes might give you quick results but they won't be long term. You will reach your goal with persistence, but until then you have to accept and love the body you have now. When you start doing something for your body and giving it the time and attention it needs, I think that's when you start loving your body and when you gain true confidence and self-love.

So overall, working out doesn't have to be this painful, horrible thing. It can become a stress-reliever, a time for you, and a way to really prove to yourself that you can do it. By eating cleaner and exercising, I feel happier and feel good inside and out. I know it's hard to start, but the only thing that's stopping you is you!