If you make your expectations too high or unrealistic , it can be very discouraging when you don ’ t get the results you expect . Lacking results often means resolutions get thrown by the wayside .

Make a fitness resolution that is reasonable for 2015 . A good place to start , is to throw the word “ diet ” out of your vocabulary . Dieting means restricting and restricting can lead to regaining your weight or overeating . Don ’ t set yourself up for failure . Focus on lifestyle changes ; not dieting in 2015 . Below are seven ways to achieve your fitness goals without restricting yourself .

1 . Commit to making exercise a habit . For a new habit to stick , try to make a small change at first and set a routine . If you like to work out in the morning , set a time that ensures you ’ ll do it every morning . Whether you ’ re walking , running , or doing Pilates or yoga , schedule the activity into your daily routine . The more you repeat a habit , the more likely it is to stick .

2 . Post your list of goals somewhere you ’ ll see it . Stick it to your fridge , tape it to your mirror — the constant reminder will keep your goals fresh in your mind . You should also post your fitness accomplishments . For example : “ I met my three-mile benchmark today .” It will keep you motivated and wanting to do more .

3 . Work on one goal at a time . If you want to eat healthier , start with that — focus on making meal plans , for example . After you ’ re eating better , begin the next goal on your list . Gradually add more once you have mastered the previous goal . There is no rush ; you have all year !

4 . Give yourself time benchmarks for each fitness goal . This will keep you from getting frustrated and will allow you to stay realistic . Don ’ t set yourself up for failure . Know your limits and what your body can actually attain .

5 . Stay focused . Remember why you are getting fit in the first place . Always envision how great you are going to look and feel . Every day of being active and eating healthy is another day closer to reaching your goals .

6 . Be patient ! Tough but true : You ’ re not going to get results overnight . “ Results come with time ,” as Joseph Pilates once said : “ In 10 sessions you ’ ll feel the difference , in 20 sessions you ’ ll see the difference , and in 30 sessions you ’ ll have a whole new body .” Staying active is better than nothing , so know that no matter how you work out , you ’ re achieving good health .

7 . Find your fitness soul mate . Enjoying the kind of exercise you do helps keep you motivated to keep on doing it . For me , it was when I found Spin class . I left my first class thinking , I can ’ t wait to do this again ! If you love something , think about the steps you go through to make sure you include it in your life . It ’ s not just about fitness being a priority ; it ’ s about you prioritizing your happiness . That is something that feeds your body and your soul .