As an Exercise Science major and intern for an organization that focuses on promoting healthy living to kids in the community, I have witnessed my fair share of people who desperately want to change, to either look or feel different, but can't seem to find the motive or drive to fully commit. Changing habits is hard, but through my own journey to find a healthy balance in my life I have come across a few tricks that may help the process.

Buy A Cookbook

Go to a bookstore or cooking shop and browse the cookbooks. Honestly, once you get started it'll be hard to stop. Looking through cookbooks has become a hobby of mine, as funny as it might sound. Find a cookbook that has lots of pictures and is easy to read. Buying a cookbook will give you a motive to actually cook for once instead of eating out or getting something quick at the store. Plus, trying new recipes is fun and rewarding!

Wake Up Earlier

I will admit I still struggle with this one sometimes, but I'm working on it. Studies have shown (and I have also found) that if you get up and get your workout done in the morning you are more likely to actually do it plus it burns more calories! I am definitely guilty of snoozing my alarm and telling myself I'll get my workout done later on, only to realize its night and I'm tired and just want to go to bed. Plus, getting your exercise in first thing leaves you feeling energized and rejuvenated for the rest of the day!

Find Exercise You Enjoy

This one may seem obvious but it is so important! So many people believe exercising means running or lifting. But there is so much more to exercising. If you arn't into running or working out at the gym, no problem! The most important thing about starting an exercise routine is finding something you enjoy. Studies have shown that those who participate in an exercise they enjoy and more likely to continue with the program long term instead of quitting due to boredom or difficulty. Google alternative workouts or look on youtube, there is plenty out there and you might surprise yourself! Exercise can be fun for everyone, you just need to find the right kind of activity that works for you.

Make a Calendar

Go online and download a simple calendar, or make your own! On the calendar, write down milestones you want to follow through with, maybe each month, every 3 months, etc...Each day after completing a workout or following through with you meal plan (could be one calendar for both or two separate) cross off the day or write what you did that day. Having a visual will keep you motivated and help you not to skip any days. Once you see how many days you have made it without quitting it'll be a great motivator to keep going or not take that day off!

Set Realistic Goals

This may be the most important tip of all. It can be hard to stay patient and make realistic goals throughout your journey. But its so important to remember all those small goals will add up to your long term goal in the end. Write your top goal on a piece of paper, and then underneath write all the things you think will help you to reach that goal. Tape the sheet to your door, mirror, or bedside, somewhere you will see it every day. Visually looking at your goals every day and keeping them in the back of your mind will help you to stay motivated and remember why you are working so hard!