Start with a Long-Term Goal. Picture what you want out of life, how your life will be different, what you would be able to do differently, what you want to acheive. Think of the strategy you'll use and who can help you. This is your blueprint. Before you do anything else, write that goal down. Memory studies indicate that the brain forgets 80% of detail within 24 hours and 99% within two weeks. Writing it down keeps the goal fresh and clear in your mind.

Next, create a timeline. Pick a date that you would like to acheive your goal(s) by. Now you have Point A and Point B; what are the steps along the way that'll take you from one to the other? Think of a series of Medium-Term Milestones you can use to keep momentum high and the path straight. Maybe set weekly or monthly goals to move closer to the ultimate prize.

Finally, plan out the Short-Term Actions that will get you to your first Milestones. These are your daily and weekly nutrition and fitness goals. This is how doing just a little bit every day can help you reach even your biggest goal. By doing these Actions, you stay on track and a permanent, healthier lifestyle is just a matter of time.

Overall, your health,wellness,life goals should be:

Realistic: Start off with a goal that isn't too ambitious, so you can sooner experience the thrills of success. Build toward grander goals to keep your motivation high.

Specific: Make sure it can be measured and tracked.

Forgiving: Leave room for the "1 Step Back, 2 Steps Forward" principle to apply.

Crystal Clear: Find a photo depicting or symbolizing what you want. The clearer the point of the whole thing is, the easier it is to stay focused.

Valuable: Remind yourself why you want to succeed in the first place.

Challenging: What do you wish for? This is the goal that will hold your attention the most. There's no reason our wishes can't become our goals.

Rewarded: Every little bit of positive reinforcement helps.

Backed Up: Prepare for the unknown with contingency plans before problems come up. Have options waiting that will help you stay consistent in the face of the unexpected.

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