It’s easy to start off the weekend with the intent to be good. You did a great job all week, following your food plan, working out as planned – even getting enough rest and finding a balance for everything going on in your life. But then your best friend decides to host a Margarita party (the large ones have about 400 calories each, not to mention the chips and guacamole – ouch!)

It’s your “off” day… and you know you’re allowed a cheat meal — but the off day turns into turns into an off weekend — and before you know it, it’s Sunday night, you’re miserable — and you feel deflated by the fact that you didn’t stick to the plan.

You have two choices at this point. Go to bed and roll over feeling like a failure… or make a plan. What action can you take NOW (before the end of the day) in order to start moving in the direction of your goal? Grab a notebook and start with some goal setting. There are 6 elements essential in creating the mindset and actions consistent with making a distinct change in who we are:

1. Intention
2.Strategy
3.Commitment
4.Persistence
5.Belief
6.Passion

Make a list of these elements. Do you have the intention to make a change? What’s your strategy? How about a commitment to creating new healthy habits and ditching the old ones? Persistence (which is a lot about getting back on the horse when you fall off!) Belief – in yourself, in knowing that this is what you really, really want – and you are unashamed in your quest to make it happen. Passion… are you passionate about learning, doing and achieving? You must be — you’re seeking out information (such as this Blog) and learning more each day!

So make a plan… pack up your food for the next day… lay out your workout clothes and set the alarm to be back on schedule and in the gym before work.