I’m too busy to work out! I don’t have time to eat healthy! My schedule doesn’t allow me to read that book I want to! Chances are, you’ve uttered these or similar excuses at some point in your life, and if you keep giving yourself excuses like these, you won’t ever be able to achieve the results you want from your health and fitness routine.

1) Change Your Mindset

The first step is changing your mindset. If you want to be successful at anything, then you need to believe that success is possible for you. You need to be confident in yourself so that you can work hard and achieve your goals. One way of doing this is by reading motivational quotes or listening to affirmations. Another way is by spending time with people who are motivated and successful--their positive energy will rub off on you.

2) Set Small Goals

Small, achievable goals will keep you motivated. Start by setting a goal that is small enough that it can be completed in a day or two. For example, make your goal for tomorrow clean my desk.

3) Create a To-Do List

  1. Wake up at a decent hour.
  2. Drink water or tea before eating breakfast.
  3. Work out for at least 20 minutes before you start your day.
  4. Eat a healthy breakfast after working out, preferably with protein and whole-grains like eggs or oatmeal with almond milk, banana, honey, cinnamon, and chia seeds mixed in.

4) Find an Accountability Partner

An accountability partner is someone who will help you stay motivated by holding you accountable for your goals. It can be a friend, mentor, or family member. Your partner needs to know what your goals are and understand how he or she can help you.

5) Take Breaks

Taking breaks is important not only for your mental health, but for your work as well. Studies have shown that doing so can help refresh your mind, giving you a fresh perspective on what you're doing. Taking an occasional break from your work will also help you avoid burnout—a very real concern in today's fast-paced world.

6) Reward Yourself

Here are some of the best ways to reward yourself for all your hard work.

  • Watch an episode of your favorite show.
  • Buy something you've been wanting. - Take a relaxing bath or long shower.
  • Have a long phone conversation with a friend you don't get to talk to often enough.