If you already know you have what it takes to have a slim, firm and sexy body but, you are in need of a little motivation, here is the perfect mantra to keep you on track: “Awareness, Behavior, Consistency”.

Awareness.

This is the single-most important factor in controlling your weight. For as long as you eat without thinking, your weight will be out of control. You must pay attention to what you are eating. You’ve heard it before, and I’ll say it again, read the label. Stop and think about how much food makes up a single serving size, how many calories are in that single serving, how much fat and what kind of fat, and how much sugar. These are just the basics, but you must pay attention to what you are putting into your mouth, especially if you have a tendency to eat on auto-pilot. One of the easiest ways to become aware of your REAL food consumption is by keeping a simple food diary.

Behavior.

Once you become aware of what you are eating, you need to focus on changing your behavior. This may be as simple as substituting better foods for bad foods. If you like to eat crunchy food, grab baby carrots or pickles instead of chips. If you crave sweets, grab a piece of fruit instead of candy. You must change your behavior, but be patient with yourself. It takes about 31 days to develop a new habit.

Consistency.

Now that you are aware of what you need to change about your eating habits and have adjusted your behavior accordingly, it’s time to become consistent. According to an Obesity Research study, people who self-monitor at least 75% of the time (6 out of 7 days) are more likely to achieve their goals than those who don’t. This is also true for those who slip off track, but then get back on. No one is perfect, and things come up that throw us off track, but real success comes by picking up where you left off. Strive to eat right consistently – that does not mean you have to be perfect, you just need to make more right choices than wrong choices.

Now, go forth and eat right, empowered with your new mantra, “Awareness, Behavior, Consistency”.