I need to stop stopping!

How do you maintain a program? Do you have any advice on how to keep myself motivated to keep going?

Discipline. Either it's a priority, or its not.

There is no other answer.

For me that translates into "exercise is the FIRST thing I do in the day".

I'm guessing that you're trying to tackle too much at one time. Make a few small changes that will be sustainable even when you get busy. Allow those changes to become habits and then make some more changes. Build a healthy lifestyle over time.

the mfp buddies that I have all workout, log in daily, and track their food. having that kind of motivation is what I needed. we "like" each others status and we ask questions, give comments, and advice. I will add you so you can get going. "If you never give up then you never have to start over".

Hey there,

Everyone that has had success has had their own unique ways of doing so.

Time and time again over the years that I have lurked around MFP, the difference between "Success" and "Hi....I'm back again" people is finding something more lasting than motivation.

I know that sounds somewhat counter productive and "MOTIVATION" is bandied around as the be all and end all, but motivation is often fleeting.....

I feel that making the decision to COMMIT to a programme/goal whatever is more likely to sustain you through the lean times.....there will be times where you may be motivated to eat cleanly/under calorie target and get in a session of exercise so you are ready for the half-marathon that you just signed up for.....but what happens when that marathon is over, what happens if you injure yourself and can't get in the exercise, etc etc. This is just a metaphor, an example.

Then during those times you still have the commitment to eating at a deficit which is the biggest help if weight loss/maintenance is your goal. Also you may be able to substitute in another form of exercise because you have realised there are ALWAYS options and many roads etc, that will still get you to your goal.

Maybe as someone else has suggested you are doing too much too soon...take this experience in bite sized pieces. Commit to weighing and logging everything you eat for at least 2 months.....make small changes to your overall consumption ie. You want to increase your water and decrease your fizzy drinks, well get that habit under your belt. Maybe new ways of trying veggies/fruits feels like it would be inspiring for you. Get on the Net and look up new cooking methods. Seek out and try all sorts of exercise....find something that you enjoy...if that changes find something else. The options can be as endless.

I bet you don't even think about the COMMITMENT and MOTIVATION that you show everyday by cleaning your teeth and seeking a dentists help.....it's just ingrained now, part of your life; getting to and maintaining a healthy weight and lifestyle is just the same. You are worth every positive aspect that being a healthy weight and being fit offers.

Good luck.

whoops...thought this said "stop shopping". I'm in the wrong place. Good luck!