Use the available resources
There is a wealth of freely available information that can assist you in reaching your goals sooner.
Following a programme that supports safe and effective weight loss can help you build healthy eating habits in a simple, straightforward way.
Atkins, for example, advocates the consumption of lean proteins, leafy green veges, low-sugar fruits, wholegrains and healthy fats, while eliminating foods packed with empty carbs, such as processed and refined white flour and sugar.
Many dieting websites offer resources like eating plans, recipes, expert advice and user forums so you can chat to and support other users.
Reward yourself
Break your goal down into smaller, achievable mini-goals, such as sticking to your eating plan without any cheat meals for two weeks, or losing a dress size in four weeks. Reward yourself each time you achieve a goal - just not with food.
Put money towards new gym gear to help your fitness plans or a new dress to wear once you reach your goal size - it'll give you something to look forward to and motivation to stick to it.
Inspire yourself
Whether it's those skinny jeans you're desperate to squeeze into, a beach holiday you want to be bikini- or Speedos-ready for, a sports event you're training for or whatever, pin a note or picture on an inspiration board to keep you motivated.
Spread the word
Tell your family, friends and colleagues about your plan. They can help make you accountable and offer you support - and the more support you have the more likely you'll succeed.
Some of them may even join you for mutual support.
Swap bad for good
Investigate healthy substitutes for your favourite vices. Trying to go without is more likely to induce cravings for the real deal.
If it's ice cream, opt for natural yoghurt (with less than 8g of carbohydrates per 100g), mix it with fresh berries and freeze it in ice-block moulds.
If chocolate is your downfall, opt for carob or low-carb chocolate snack bars.
Skip the junk food aisle
This one's easy. If you don't go down the confectionery or biscuit aisle it's easier to not give in to the temptation of unhealthy snacks.
Instead, head down the health food aisle. There are plenty of delicious low sugar and low fat alternatives that will keep your sweet tooth satisfied - dried fruit is one.
The more you move, the more you'll lose
Combine your healthy eating plan with exercise. Schedule outdoor activities into your evening and weekend plans. Meet friends for a walk, ride, game of tennis or yoga class instead of a coffee and cake.
Swap the lift for the stairs and walk to the dairy instead of driving. A combination of dieting and exercise will help you reach your goals sooner.
Don't weigh every day
Don't weigh yourself every day, do it once a week, always in the morning and remember the scales record a black and white figure and don't know the difference between muscle, fat, temporary water retention and so on.
Instead, think about how you feel and how your clothes fit.
Understanding this will keep you motivated.
Never give up
Most importantly, accept you will have setbacks. Don't worry, they're just that.
Get back on the horse, shake off the guilt, forget the self-recrimination and move on. Stick to your programme and it will work for you.
One bad eating day here or there, or a week of stalled loss on the scales is not a failure.
You can and will achieve your goals if you continue to work at it.
