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Here is an insider tip to know if you’re on the right path: when you are writing your “why,” if a tear comes to your eye, you are halfway there. If your “why” does not evoke an emotional response, you probably won’t start or keep going. Keep writing until you are moved, or you’ll never move off the couch.

In the past 50 to 75 years, physical activity became the exception rather than the rule. We drive instead of walking. It’s easier to flick a switch and let machines do the hauling, lifting, pushing, and pulling.

There are ways to release many pounds. Notice I used the word “release” rather than “lose.” Human nature dictates if we “lose” something, we want to find it again. Ever notice the large gains after weeks or months of hard work?

Here are a few ideas to get begin and keep moving:

1. HAVE A SPECIFIC GOAL

A simple statement like “I want to lose some weight” is indefinite. It’s important to be precise with goals: “I am releasing 50 pounds by Sept. 1” is more powerful than “I’m going to lose a bunch of weight by the fall.”

Every day, envision yourself at the exact size you’ll be at your desired weight. Put a picture on your fridge of the end result: the slimmer you hugging your child or grandchild.

2. DEVELOP A STRATEGY

Strength of will does not work alone. To release weight and stay with it, there must be exercise and diet, and not just one or the other.

Motivate yourself by giving away clothes that are too big. This means you only have your smaller, “sexier” clothes