We always make a fuss about the big things in life -- weddings, graduations, and so on. But it's important to acknowledge the little victories too.Like, for instance, yesterday I made the ever-so-rare decision to forgo having a slice of the office birthday cake. My co-workers chided me, tried to get me to give in, but I resisted. And last week, I went to the gym every day but one -- and that day I worked up a sweat raking leaves. They're not big accomplishments, but they deserve a pat on the back. It's all the hundreds of little victories like these that lead to bigger accomplishments like losing weight or lowering cholesterol.

Reward yourself. It's a good way to stay motivated through the long haul. But unlike before, don't celebrate with food -- buy yourself a new shirt, book an appointment with the hairdresser, or simply allow yourself to relax with a good book on a Sunday afternoon.