To act consistently enough to make sustainable change, you need desire, willingness and ability:

Desire is usually the easy one. Most of us love the idea of being lean, strong, well-organized, etc. If you lack desire to change, hopefully you’re satisfied with how you are. If not, think about why you want to change until you find the right motivation.

Willingness is the sticking point for most people. We might want to look or feel better, but don’t want to make the necessary sacrifice. “I want to slim down, but I can’t give up bread.” Can’t or won’t? If willingness is your sticking point, go back to desire and think about why you are taking action.

Ability is all you need when you make it past the first two. Common sense will get you pretty far. You could also think of the things that you know won’t work and do the opposite. If you need more information, do some research or hire a coach. (Sometimes the best action is to get help.)

If you are struggling to take action, what is holding you back?