With the New Year started, many are beginning their first, fourth, or sometimes endless attempt to lose weight as part of their resolutions, but is it really getting any easier? Being trapped within the day to day hustle of your career, it is often difficult or even nearly impossible to squeeze in an exercise plan. At the end of the day, all you want to do is kick off your shoes and sprawl into bed, and get a much needed rest before you begin the same hectic routine the next day. If you find yourself in this situation but are dedicated to sticking to your resolution, here are a few tips to help you on your journey to a healthier lifestyle.

1. Starting Your Day Early
Waking up with the sun will give you ample time to get in a few minutes of cardio through a light jog or a morning stroll before you head off to work. Grab some fruit or some oatmeal for a healthy morning breakfast.

2. Take Time to Find Time
Whenever you have a few minutes to yourself, try to address the issue of finding time for exercise. Document where you find yourself not taking advantage of your time, such as when you're sitting on the computer, or watching television. Prioritize your activities, putting those that require the most attention first.

3. Make Small Changes and Think Outside of the Box
There are countless ways to get in a little bit of exercise throughout your day that often go unnoticed. Park farther from your destinations to get in a small walk. Avoid using elevators and venture through the lonely door to the stairs. Instead of laying on the couch watching television, try to do simple exercises while you watch. Make use of the word "mobile" in mobile phone and take your calls with you on a walk around the neighborhood or park. Avoid taxis and buses if your destination is only a few blocks away. Replace "junk" food snacks with healthier options.

Annette Wilson, a proud 27 year old Pilipino Physician's Assistant in Neurology at Tallahassee Neurology Clinic, in Tallahassee, Florida, has recently found a balance between her busy work schedule and shares some of her tips on how she lost a total of 65 pounds.

"Before I began my journey I thought I never had any time since I work so often, even after hours and having to be on call, but what I realized was that I actually had a lot time because most of my time in the evening was spent on the couch!"

By setting goals, she has been able to remain consistent with her workouts. She says:

"When I started my journey I set a huge goal which was to complete a triathlon in a year. I remember thinking in my head that the concept of me running 1 mile was crazy, how the heck can I complete a triathlon...6 months later now I am in full training for my very first one which I will complete in April. But also you have to set small goals so you can celebrate those as you accomplish them."

She also shared that having a trainer helped hold her accountable and identify her weaknesses and strengths. Her secrets to exercising included circuit training (a combination of both upper and lower body exercises), core training daily, and her new found hobby, kickboxing. " My co-workers would laugh at me because sometimes I will just bust some moves out in the office."

One of her most important tips:

"If you take a day off, which is important for your body and recovery, make sure you are still active, go for a hike, walk the dog, play Frisbee....BE ACTIVE."

Annette Wilson is a testament of the amount of determination and focus it takes to balance her work with her exercise, and although it wasn't easy, the results were worth it.

Ultimately, the only person stopping you from your goals is yourself. If you can commit to these tips and make small changes in your life, then you will be on your way to your summer vacation beach body.

Sources/Related Links:

•   The Busy Person's Exercise Plan
• The Busy Man's Fitness Plan
• How to Lose Weight For a Busy Person
• Maintaining Exercise Regimen with Hectic Schedules

*Photo Provided by Andersen Ross