Life, regardless of what you are doing, is really a mental game. Even physical endeavors begin in the mental realm. Champions are first champions in their own minds, and only then can the expression of their greatness come to fruition.

Although much of my work involves physically training clients, never underestimate the mental training that is required to succeed. I often spend more time working with their mental fitness than I do their physical fitness, for until we are mentally prepared to succeed, results will be fleeting, at best.

Set yourself up mentally for success with an “I will” attitude rather than an “I’ll try” attitude.

Saying “I’ll try” to exercise is really saying, “I will exercise if everything else gets done, if I am still in the mood, and if nothing better comes up.”

Yes, unexpected things happen and our best intentions are sometimes derailed, but the mindset that you bring to your self-care is of prime importance. If you take an “I’ll try” attitude toward your health and fitness plan, you are essentially putting yourself and your plan at the bottom of the list.

When you take an “I will” attitude, you are putting the two at the top of the list. In other words, unless you are dead or seriously disabled, you are going to find a way to fit some form of movement into your day—no excuses—period!

One of my favorite quotes is by Pat Riley, widely regarded as one of the greatest NBA coaches of all time. He said, “There are only two options regarding commitment; you’re either in or you’re out. There’s no such thing as life in-between.”

Decide now to bring an “I will” attitude to your life. Stop trying to do things and just do them. Make a commitment and hold yourself to a high standard.

Every day when you awaken is a chance for a fresh start. Decide today to be better, do better, and live better than yesterday. Greatness begins with a quiet decision to pursue excellence.

– Tara Marie Segundo, M.A. holds a Master’s Degree in Applied Physiology from Columbia University and is a Fitness Expert, Personal Trainer, Motivational Strategist, and Radio Talk Show Host based in New York City. For more information, please visit www.TaraMarie.com.