I do it to myself all the time. The thought enters my mind on a daily basis - Why did I eat that?

I contemplate whether or not I should eat healthier while finishing my last slice of pizza. I make plans to exercise, not to lose weight, but to stay active and not feel so out of breath when I get to the top of the stairs.

I could spend days on Pinterest saving pictures of healthy recipes and workout plans, but all I end up doing is daydreaming about the idea of it. There have been times where I successfully stuck to a plan. I got myself up off the couch and went for a "run". I ate quinoa and grilled chicken for days on end. I'll admit — at first, I hated it. I love food too much. I couldn't part with my favorite meals and limit myself with going on a "diet".

I find myself wanting to workout to enhance certain parts of my body. I do my research. I've tried running, but found that I run out of energy much sooner than I think I should. I'm also way too self-conscious about running in public. Growing up, I lacked athletic ability. I tried to be active. I attempted joining recreational sports teams in elementary school, but soon discovered I would never make it as a professional athlete.

With that in mind, I tried to exercise in other ways. I did it all. I bought workout DVDs (yes, I've done "Hip-Hop Abs"), but I couldn't stick to anything. What is my problem?

I think I can speak for others when I say that I didn't put in the leg-work (literally). I admired the idea of being physically fit, but never allowed myself to reach my highest potential. Basically, I was just too lazy. I would drive past a gym and say, "I'm going to sign up," but have I yet?

I think what I am missing is that I am lacking a plan that works best for me. There are no rules that say that you have to do it one way. Everyone is different. We are all looking for different things. Progress doesn't happen immediately. It takes time and dedication. If you are like me and like an ice cream cone or two, but still want to gain some muscle tone, there is a way to do it where you'll be happy with the results without feeling miserable during the process. The things that you like to indulge in can still be apart of your life. It is all about doing things in moderation.

It is important to remember that wanting to exercise and eat healthier should be driven by the desire to feel better from the inside out and not just about exterior results. Of course, there are many of us, including myself, who experience body image issues. We pick ourselves apart. We then end up thinking that if we look better on the outside, the feelings we have towards our bodies will change immediately. The truth is that it will come from within. So do what works for you.

Eat pizza, then workout. Workout and have a protein shake. Go for a run once a month. Whatever it is that you find comfortable, allow yourself to enjoy the process. There is no pressure and no rush! Believe that you can and you will achieve your goals.