Falling off ...

This is a tough one to answer, as the motivation to succeed can really only come from you. You know why you need/want to be fitter, healthier, thinner etc.

Many people link emotions with food, and psychologically speaking, it is not a simple task to break this bond.

Personally, I rely on a number of things to keep me on track. In the interest of giving you some food for thought I'll share them with you. Some days one aspect will make a more powerful motivator than others:

1. Big picture thinking (my kids). Not a good one to use as a specific goal based motivator, but the thought of them having a fit and healthy dad and setting them up as healthier human beings is enough to get me going sometimes.

2. Specific goals: I have fitness and strength goals, and know that my nutrition must be decent for me to acheive them. For me, knowing that I am going for a run that night, or to the gym the next morning will keep me accountable. I don't want to feel like crap running with a stomach full of chocolate... so I don't eat it.

3. Accountability: Tell people you are trying to be healthier, lose weight etc. The more people know what you are trying to achieve, the more accountable you will feel, and therefore more likely to follow through. I'll have gone from the guy who couldn't run 1km without a rest 3 months ago, to running a half marathon later this year. I've told everyone I'm doing it, and I dont want to be the cowardly fat guy that cant follow through!

I hope that helps you a little. My real advice would be to have a good hard think about these things, and what YOU need to push through the moments of doubt and weakness... then keep these things at the front of mind, or write them down. You will pick yourself back up, you will succeed.