Motivation and not giving up

Have you ever set a goal for yourself, like getting fit, making honor roll, or being picked for a team? Like lots of people, maybe you started out doing great, but then lost some of that drive and had trouble getting motivated again. Everyone struggles with staying motivated and reaching their goals. But it's still possible to stay motivated if you take the right approach.

• Start by writing down your major goal. Your major goal is the ultimate thing you'd like to see happen. It's OK to dream big. That's how people accomplish stuff. You just have to remember that the bigger the goal, the more work it takes to get there.
• Have a specific goal rather than a vague one. Let's say your goal is to get fit. That's pretty vague. Make it specific by defining what you want to achieve (such as muscle tone and definition or endurance), why you want to get fit, and by when. This helps you make a plan to reach your goal.
• Make it realistic. People often abandon their goals because their expectations are unreasonable.
• Put your specific goal in writing. Write your goal down every day to keep you focused and remind you how much you want it.
• Most importantly recommit to your goal if you slip up. If you slip up, don't give up. Forgive yourself and make a plan for getting back on track.