I should point out a couple things before I go along. I'm not an expert in weight loss - it's not something I've studied or have a degree in. I'm offering up advice based on what has worked for me, so if you too are starting a weight loss journey, it's a good idea to talk to your health care professional. They will also have some good advice about how to get started and proceed.

What I can offer is support. Having people around me that have supported and encouraged my goal is paramount. I think together we can share our stories, ideas and suggestions. You have to pick what's right for you.

Remember to believe in yourself!

Working out used to be a chore. Sometimes I just didn't want to get my behind off the couch and go outside. I lacked motivation and put up lots of excuses for why I couldn't work out. But those excuses were only contributing to my obesity. So I had to work through my issues and turn my attitude about working out around.

If I look back on my adult years, I had periods where I was hitting the gym every day and taking every class I could. Of course I would fall off the wagon months later and go though large stretches of inactivity too. It was like being on a very slow roller coaster.

When I made the commitment to change my lifestyle, I knew increasing my activity level would play a big part. And I knew I wouldn't be able to fall back on those old excuses any more. So instead of jumping in head first and starting a crazy workout regime, I chose to start slow and went outside to walk. I found just a simple 30 or 45 minute walk around my neighborhood really made me feel refreshed. On several occasions my husband came with me, so it gave us a good opportunity to catch up.

I then started taking yoga classes which not only helped my physical body but my mind as well. All of a sudden I felt grounded, peaceful and calm. I have to admit I really didn't enjoy yoga as a young adult - my head was always wondering, "How long to we have to hold this pose?" Now with each pose I find the grace and beauty in the pose. It has changed the way I look and feel.

And now I've started to run. Many years ago I ran in two grueling Hood to Coast relay races. I remember loving the race but hating the training and after the last race, I told myself I wasn't a runner. That stuck with me. But I recently started doing something called Chi Running and took a private lesson from a certified instructor. I loved it and all of a sudden, running became effortless. Now I'm running at least three days a week (not very far mind you), and the rush is incredible. I feel elated and proud of myself. Then when I go inside to prepare dinner, that feeling stays with me, and I've found I want to eat less. My body actually craves things like fruits and vegetables.

So my suggestion to you is find a work out routine that works for you. If it's walking with friends at lunch, hitting the elliptical machine at the gym after work, going for a hike or jumping on your bike, great! Do something you love and see it as an opportunity rather than a chore.

And now I'm curious... what activity do you love? What seems to get you motivated to get out there and get moving?

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