Here we are again, rapidly approaching another new year! Did you achieve your resolutions from 2008? No? Me neither, but the good news is there's still time! An excellent weight loss eating plan, some minor lifestyle changes, a good exercise program...that's all you need to be simply divine by 2009!

The magic key to weight loss is consistency over time! Follow your plan over a long period of time and you will reach your goal. So, as a first step, find a realistic weight loss plan that you believe you can stick to and begin today! It doesn't really matter which one you choose as long as it appeals to you. Burning more calories than you consume is imperative. This easy equation will show immediate results on your bathroom scale!

Will you choose the healthier route and consume low-calorie options from the major food groups in smaller portions, or will you choose a "drastic diet" designed for rapid weight loss? That's a decision that you'll get to make, but make it carefully. Whichever route you go, you must believe that you can stick to it. That's what will make the difference! Start by purging your kitchen of unhealthy food items and replenish it with foods that will help you reach your goal!

There are a few other tips that will help you look divine by '09. Try to break the soda habit, or at the very least, drastically limit your consumption! Even diet soda does nothing good for your health. Make water your main source of hydration and save all sweet drinks for special occasions. While you're at it, limit your alcohol consumption between now and the New Year celebration! Alcohol slows weight loss and lowers your defenses when it comes to making wise food choices.

Limit your salt and sugar intake as well. Salt makes you retain fluid and too much can cause serious health concerns such as high blood pressure. Some people like to use "lite" salt and others just make a point of cutting back. Sugar, on the other hand provides empty calories, with no nutritional benefit. In addition, the more sugar you eat, the more you crave. Too much sugar can also lead to health issues such as diabetes.

No weight loss plan will be successful over the long term without including activity. To be divine by 2009, you must commit to burning more calories than you consume! Cardio training, strength training, and flexibility training are the three elements to an effective workout plan. You must work at an intensity that leaves you huffing, puffing, and sweating, for maximum benefits. Cardio exercise such as power walking, running, biking, and swimming burn the most calories, but strength training builds a foundation of lean muscle mass that keeps your metabolism amped up.

Start the New Year as a stronger, happier, healthier you! Following these basic steps for the remainder of 2008, will help you morph into what you've always wanted to be...simply divine in 2009!