Daily meditations

Daily meditations
by Liz Neporent

Something to think about while you're walking...

Answer the tough questions
Are you committed to getting in shape? If so, what steps are you taking to make sure you get there? What are you doing to ensure you will achieve the success you deserve? Asking yourself good, thought-provoking questions like this every day can help you stay on track.

One day at a time
Even if you've "fallen off the wagon" the day before - or several days in a row - today is a totally new day. Tell yourself that today's the day you're going to accomplish great things and move one step closer towards achieving your goals.

Don't doubt yourself
If you don't truly believe you can achieve something, you won't achieve it. Always start with the expectation that you can do what you set out to do and you'll be able to make your dreams come true.

Each step counts
Even if you have a long way to go, take that first step. Sometimes that's all the momentum you need to propel yourself the entire way! Remember, the journey towards a better you is an accumulation of a thousand single steps forward.

Don't hold back
If you're going to commit to this getting in shape thing, really commit. Dedicate yourself 100 percent. If you hold back even a little you'll have a harder time making it happen. Your enthusiasm and energy can carry you over any obstacle.

The physics of a new physique
Newton's First Law of Motion states that an object in motion tends to remain in motion and an object at rest tends to remain at rest. The hardest part of starting any exercise program is tying your shoes and taking that first step. Once you get going, it's easier to keep going. Try tying your shoes today.

The 90-10 rule
Do what you should do 90 percent of the time (like eat right and exercise), and then the rest of the time, cut yourself some slack. You'll need that 10 percent 'fudge factor' for that occasional special dessert or that every-once-in-a-while lazy Sunday in bed.

Fat is not a feeling
If you 'feel fat' one day, realise that all that fat is in your head. Your body doesn't change nearly as much as you think on a daily basis and you shouldn't let yourself feel down because you had a piece of birthday cake yesterday. Keep your eye on the big picture.

A little positivity goes a long way
Find out just how powerful it can be. Post little motivational notes everywhere - on your desk, the mirror, the fridge. They'll give you mini-boosts all day long.

You have thousands of cheerleaders.
We're all here for each other so take advantage of our Walk It Off community. Any time you visit, chances are someone on the message board will say exactly the right thing to get you back on track.

Don't get overwhelmed
Sometimes the act of getting in shape and losing weight can feel like an insurmountable challenge with no end in sight. While it's important to keep the big picture in mind, it's also helpful to take this Challenge one day at a time.

Meet other walkers
For support, new friends, advice and tips, chat to others walking off the weight and take a look at the live discussions taking place right now: