Now that the holidays have passed and the initial New Year’s Resolution workout hype has simmered down, people need motivation to stay dedicated. With all the left over Valentine’s Day candy floating around, the temptations are just too great. Here are a few tricks in order to resist the urge to splurge. Downsize your plate and utensils; with smaller plates and forks, you will consume your food slower and trick yourself into eating less subconsciously. Try drinking a full glass of water before every meal to curb your hunger. Many times, you are actually just thirsty instead of hungry. Another way to maintain your goals is to always eat breakfast. Don’t skip the most important meal because it will slow down your metabolism. This in turn, will result in weight gain. Breakfast also provides key energy for the rest of the day. After you’ve eaten your breakfast, make your lunch too. People who make their own lunch while full are more likely to make a healthier, smaller amount of food. You can always eat more fruits and vegetables, but that becomes redundant. If you’re a Nutella or peanut butter fan, try dipping different fruits into small dips for variation. In addition, always start your meal with the greens; this way you are more likely to fill up on the nutritionally valuable vegetables. Another way to motivate yourself is by throwing in a designated cheat day. This way you’ll be more likely resist treats in anticipation for the weekly or bi-weekly cheat/splurge day. Finding the motivation to forgo the temptations may seem difficult now but in June and July you’ll find that hard work pays off. Resist the urge to splurge and become the better, fitter, healthier you.