GOALS!

Once you dedicate yourself to getting healthier and in better shape, it's important to have a goal on where you want to be and what you want to achieve. Everyone starts to exercise and eat better for their own personal reasons. Some people want to lower blood pressure, reduce low back pain, some people actually want to gain weight (muscle), and some people just want to look better naked. Whether your goal is health related or vanity related you should know how to get there and how to determine you ARE there.
Now a goal is something that you can measure and document. "I want to get in good shape" or "I want to get stronger" are not measurable. You need to have some specifics "I want to get down to 10% body fat" or "I want to do 10 pull-ups" are measurable. Now you need a time frame 2 months, 6 months, a year- it's up to you, but make it realistic.
The hard part is creating a road map that will take you there. What are you going to do that will take you to where you want to be. It might sound too anal or difficult to document your food intake or workouts, however how will you know you are doing what needs to be done!
If you want to lose body fat you need to have an idea how many calories you are taking in and what nutrients are providing those calories. fitday.com is an excellent resource for tracking calories, protein, and fat. If your goal is getting stronger there are numerous resources to take you there, check out elitefts.com - maybe the most awesome site there is for strength fanatics like myself.
Now once you have your road map, stick to it! Don't get derailed- if you feel lazy, make it to the gym and get your lift in- you'll feel better once you get moving! If you are trying to get lean, make the right food choices, there is no excuse for eating chicken wings- there are far better food options when you go out to dinner. Now, it's your goal- once it is achieved reward yourself, but just cause you eat clean for one week or don't miss a workout for a couple weeks doesn't mean you deserve a gold medal. Have fun with your goal, stay positive, and achieve something great. Good luck!