How I did it: I "gave up" this goal two years ago because it just seemed too big and intimidating to put on this list. Instead, I focused on smaller goals, like "stick to my workout plan for one week," and then "stick to it for two weeks," or "join a gym." Today I was reviewing the goals I'd given up, and I realized, "Hey! You know what, I'm in shape!" I'm not at peak physical condition (that's for sure), but I've quit smoking, lost ten pounds since I first set this goal, and my legs and arms have completely changed shape. I get around mostly by bike and I'm to the point that very few destinations in the city are too far to bike to. This is a huge difference from when I was 22 or 23 and panting after a few blocks. I love it!

Lessons & tips: Find the type of exercise you love to do and try to do it more! I go to the gym but I'm not crazy about it; I'll work out for an hour and be bored as hell. When I ride my bike, I will push myself farther because I enjoy it so much. Healthy eating doesn't have to be hard, either. I love the "Superfoods RX" diet book by Stephen Pratt & Kathy Matthews because it's mostly common-sense, but the best wisdom I can offer is this: if you don't want to eat it, don't buy it! Keep unhealthy snack foods out of the house. Rarely will you work up enough motivation to drive to the store when you're struck with a snack-attack.

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Sep 29, 2010, 01:54PM PDT | 1 comment | 3 cheers