F: Find a way to make achieving your fitness goals fun. Create a positive, emotionally appealing image of your "new" self. Then begin to impersonate that fun-loving fitness advocate today. If you do this, you'll shift your attitude from "I have to" to "I want to." Flipping this switch will make you more willing to adopt and maintain your new habits.

I: Invent the future you want. Implement the changes you want to make today. Don't wait for the perfect time—there isn't one. Yesterday is gone and tomorrow is out of reach. All you have is today. And consider making all your changes at once. Contrary to popular belief, recent research confirms that people who bravely tackle all their changes together tend to fare better than those who take a more gradual, piecemeal approach.

T: Tell everyone you can about the changes you are making. When you ask friends and family for their encouragement, ask also how you can help them realize their fitness goals. As social creatures, we are profoundly influenced by the behavior of everyone around us. Use this insight to create a support team and to make sure you are a positive role model for others.

It's your life, so have it your way. Design a future that enhances your health and well-being and contributes to the vitality of those around you. Grab the opportunity. That way, when 2010 rolls around, instead of having regrets, you'll experience joy and satisfaction as you reflect on your accomplishments.

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