(ARA) - According to a recent national survey on dieting attitudes, almost 80 percent of Americans promise to start their diets on Mondays, and one in four Americans start a new diet at least once a month. While Mondays may seem like the perfect time to start over, this approach can often be a self-defeating strategy that prolongs short- and long-term success.

"Americans have grown accustomed to the timing and predictability of Mondays," says Laura Berman Fortgang, life coach and author of "Living Your Best Life." "Our behavior of breaking commitments also becomes predictable. We must be held accountable for reaching our goals, and need to decide in every moment and every decision whether it will betray our best intentions or not."

Weight management is one of the top priorities to maintaining balance in all areas of personal and professional life as Americans are bombarded with issues surrounding food and body image. The survey on national dieting attitudes was conducted by Harris Interactive for Clarinol CLA, and showcases how these issues affect many Americans. "Weight can often be a huge driver or barrier to one's self esteem," says Fortgang.

To help overcome some of life's obstacles including weight management, personal empowerment and professional growth, Fortgang offers these key strategies for success.

  • Break Your Promise Pattern: Make everyday count, not just Monday. You don't need to wait for a certain day to begin making healthy choices.
  • Break it Down: Make your goal manageable with small changes, such as adding fruit for breakfast each day or attending two aerobic classes every week.
  • Kick Start Your Body: If dieting and exercising alone are not enough, consider incorporating a safe and proven ingredient like Clarinol CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid) to your diet to increase lean muscle mass and reduce fat storage.
  • Emulate a Role Model: Whether it's Britney's body or Trump's wealth, borrow the personality traits, discipline and attitude it takes to achieve your goal. Surround yourself with people who share your vision.
  • Know the Pay-off: Always have your goal in mind. Make it your rule that every win counts, no matter the size or time of the effort. Don't let one set-back sabotage your success.
  • Define Your Time: Go beyond just meeting your day-to-day assignment deadlines. Make yourself accountable by setting a timeframe to reach professional goals, such as closing a deal within three months or receiving a promotion in six months.

"Make a commitment to simply break your pattern" says Fortgang. "The day or week isn't ruined if you falter on a diet or any personal or professional endeavor. Take responsibility to make each decision count."

For more information about Clarinol visit www.clarinol.com.

Courtesy of ARA Content