1.

Set yourself a goal. Decide how much you are going to lose and by when, then break that down into smaller, more manageable goals. One to two pounds per week is as much as you safely should aim for.

2.

Get active! People are more sedentary than ever before so we're bound to be overweight as a population. Use the stairs more often, use the car less. (How many hours do you watch TV each week?)

3.

Imagine how you will look and feel when you have achieved the weight loss. A positive, detailed image to concentrate on will make all the difference (find an old photo of your self , or even someone else at an ideal weight, and stick it on the fridge if it helps).

"You have to expect things of yourself before you can do them." Michael Jordan

4.

Take up a new activity you've always wanted to try. Anything that elevates your heart rate will draw upon your fat stores for energy. If you enjoy it and learn something new you'll stick to it. Walking, cycling or swimming are ideal, or try a class such as Aqua-aerobics, Spinning or even a dance class like Salsa!

5.

Forget fad diets, you may be lucky and lose some weight in the short term but in the long run you will have a higher percentage of body fat than before you started.

6.

Eat little and often. By eating more often you will ensure that you never get hungry, your mood and energy levels stay consistent and your body is less likely to store food as bodyfat.

7.

Eat Breakfast! Eating a good meal first thing in the morning "kick starts" your metabolism (see no.6)

8.

Weight Train. Resistance training will improve your muscle shape and increase your metabolism. Invest in a few sessions with a qualified and experienced personal trainer to put you on the right track and ensure your programme is safe and effective.

9.

Drink plenty of water. Keep a 1 1/2 litre bottle of water on your desk and get through it every day

10.

Eat something else. Substitute some nutritious low calorie snacks for usual goodies like biscuits, crisps and chocolate. Try grapes or small rice cakes.

11.

Use your lunch break. Get out for a 20 or 30 minute walk, you'll also be more energized for the afternoon.

12.

DO IT NOW! If you keep talking about it, nothing will happen!