[dannybogs]

I feel like I’ve spent my whole life ALMOST in shape, ALMOST healthy, but haven’t quite been able to get to that place where I’m really psyched about my body. I’ve tried every diet and workout routine…anyone else have anything else I might try?

[rockinrobin]

Well, what exactly have you tried? Not knowing the answer to that -

How's about:

Eating healthy, wholesome foods? Lots of veggies, fruits, whole grains and low fat proteins? Elminating most sugars and white flour? Counting/tracking calories for accountability and portion control? Realizing that this is a LIFESTYLE change that must continue on? NOT begin and end?

Joining a gym? Getting a personal trainer? Walking? Strength training?

Again, it's really hard to know how to steer you when we haven't been given much info. Like how much weight are you looking to lose? And what you've tried in the past.............

Sounds like you're ready to kick it up a notch, which is great! Find a plan you can stick with, not go on and off. Incorporate good healthy habits into your life and before you know it, you'll be where you want to.

[alinnell]

Mental motivation is probably the hardest part of it all, and it sounds like that is what you're dealing with. You need to set aside some time for yourself each and every day. Start by just thinking about what you want. Then move onto making lists of how to achieve what you want. Then use that time to do the things on your list to actually get what you want.

For example, every morning set aside 30 minutes of time for yourself. Spend that time thinking about what you want--kind of meditation. When you've decided (say it is to get into better shape and lose 5 pounds). Then spend that time listing ways that you can get into shape and lose the weight. Like Robin said, eat more vegetables, or count calories, or choose one of the popular diets that are out there. After that, spend that 30 minutes exercising to get into shape. 30 minutes per day for most people is all that it takes (others are more).

Good luck and remember, it's only 30 minutes--everyone can find 30 minutes even if it means giving up a little TV at night or getting up early in the morning.

Along with what else has been said, don't forget about SELF LOVE!!! I'm pretty good at ragging on myself. Every once in awhile I have to stop and remind myself that I am what God made and God don't make no garbage. I try to never give up on trying to be better tomorrow than I am today, but, I also have to remember that today, I am pretty damned good. So are you!!!