Nothing changes until something changes. It really is that simple. The problem for most of us is that change does not come that easily. I know I fall into the pattern of “this is the way I have always done it” and struggle to make a turn that will allow me to get around the hurt, habit or hang-up that hinders my way.

My weight struggles are not about food. Technically, they are because I eat more than my body needs. But I try explaining that to a husband that wants to help. My issue has been food, and overcoming that issue will not happen by changing to diet drinks, controlling calories or even creating a detailed regimen of exercise. I HAVE to change.

I have made the commitment in the past, only to find myself back in the hole a few weeks, months (or even years) down the road. The right excuse sends me back to the comfort of “I have always done it this way.”

The truth is that I have NOT always done it that way, no matter what IT may be. I have changed my actions in the past to get to where I am and all I have to do now is change my actions once again to get back in the place I want to be.

Tips for Making Major Changes

1. Start with minor changes. I did not get to this weight overnight, and the weight will not be released overnight. Even the folks on “The Biggest Loser” have to put in major hours in order to get the results we see on television each week, and even then it starts with the first step.

2. Be consistent. A small change, made every single day, will become a new action. Make a schedule that you can mark off each day and then you will be able to see the change begin to unfold.

3. Build a support system. You will be more successful in every aspect of life when you have encouragement in place to help carry you over hurdles. Start a group, share online, or get a partner that is also determined to make changes.

4. Fuel the body well. The car you drive to work has to have fuel, fluids and other necessities to drive well and be safe. The body you wear everyday also needs these things. Food has been put here for our pleasure, but first and foremost it was designed to fuel the body. What kind of fuel are you using?

5. Speak the change. Begin to verbalize the change that you desire. I am exercising every day. I am healthy and happy. I am shaping my body to where it was designed to be. Thinking good, happy thoughts and then speaking them out loud will go a long ways to helping lift your spirits and drive your change.

I am making the change, and I refuse to wait another day. By the time the New Year rolls around, I will be on my way to the person I was designed to be.

Share your tips today on making changes, and also share how the little changes you make are adding up to a big difference in your life.

I turn 40 in January. My mind tells me I am far from those years but my body shows each passing moment. I am not healthy. I can not even play ball with my kids. It is time to achieve all of those goals I have been spouting.

Things that I Dare to Achieve:

I want to run again. The other day we went to tour a local cave. The walk was only around a mile or so and easy enough going in, but we had to rush coming out (nothing like a three year old announcing “I have to go potty” to but the gears into high). By the time we got to the cave entrance I was out of breath. I ran the two mile event in high school. I want to run like that once more.

I want to wear clothes that I like. At this moment there are few clothes that I truly like hanging in my closet. Most of the outfits I have are there because they camouflage all those things that I detest. It is time for me to start shopping again for clothes that I feel comfortable and confident walking around in.

I want to dance with my husband. Right now I would not be able to dance the night away. I might be able to dance a song or two but that would be all. I taught ballroom dancing in college. It is time for me to move with that freedom around the floor once more.

I want to enjoy the summer (and yes, that does include wearing a swim suit). My whole life was spent outdoors but I hide inside these days. I want to play in the water with my kids. I want to hang out at the lake with my friends and my family. I may even want to brave the skis once more.

My lack of consistency and determination hinders my life. I know that. I have the keys to healthy living but I am choosing a different road. It can no longer continue in this way. I have determined that I will do more than dare to dream. I will dare to achieve all of my goals!

Would you be willing to invest one hour a week if you knew that it would change your life?

Points to the One Hour Diet

1. Support is essential. It is possible to do things on your own but support makes accomplishment more likely (and much easier). Spending thirty minutes each week with a group that can support you in your endeavor will help encourage you to complete the journey.

2. Daily affirmation makes success a possibility. You are what you think. Thinking the positive about your situation instead of mulling over the negative will give you the added fuel you need to finish the race.

3. There is only action or inaction. Success comes from action. You have to put your goals and dreams to work.

Just three simple steps that can be completed in one hour each week are all that you need to change your life. Are you ready?

Let me know if you would be interested in a study or plan that would follow this pattern. Leave your comment here or link back to this post for your chance to win a free One Hour Diet Study Guide.