By Tracy Olgeaty Gensler, M.S., R.D., Best Life nutritionist

What keeps you going on days when you just don't feel like getting out of bed and heading to the gym? What helps you stick to your healthy-eating plan when faced with your favorite treats? Best Life members share their stay-on-track strategies—use them whenever you need a little motivation boost.

Log on. Many Best Life members rely on their friends on the site's online community for support. "We share ideas and help each other overcome obstacles. I always have a soft place to fall day or night, as I can come and read what others have written," says Ann S., a member of the 100+Pounds to Loose group. "There are 25 women from all over the world, including Sweden, Australia, Germany and Canada. I can say with great certainty that I would have given up months ago without this support." Modebb agrees. "I use the message board everyday!" Modebb's group, Need to Lose Over 100 Pounds, adopted the green frog (as in Kermit) as their mascot, and they use it as a motivator. Debbie has a picture of herself with frogs on the site, another puts frog stickers on foods she shouldn't have. "We have fun with it. It gives us reminders during the day until we can talk with each other."

Get away. "What seems to motivate me is going on vacation," says Best Life member Sharon. "We went to Aruba in November and I was able to lose eight pounds before we left."

Make exercise fun. "I had the pleasure of caring for two long-haired German Shepherds and ran with them every day," says Best Life member Procatcher. "It's easier to keep exercising when you find a variety of ways to do it so it is fun and different every day."

Take pride in yourself. Best Life member Mamasuze says that one of the things that keeps her motivated is the feeling of empowerment. "I realized this one evening (after my food cut-off time) when my husband asked if I would help him eat some popcorn if he made it. I told him, 'No thanks.' He wanted to know why. I told him, 'Because I don't eat after 7:30 anymore.' Instead of taking the 'I'm on a diet' stance, it felt wonderful to say that I just don't eat two hours before bed. I owned it, it's who I am now, and I didn't need to make excuses." Embrace the healthy changes you're making and let that fuel your resolve.

Reward yourself. Marlene, a 52-year-old from Maryland, gets a double bonus from working out by choosing an activity that she truly loves—dancing. Not only does she burn calories at her ballet, jazz and modern dance classes, but she also has fun. "Dance classes are like a reward to me, I look forward to them," she says. Whether you go for a massage for sticking to your diet during happy hour or buy yourself new fitness gear for not missing a workout, find ways to celebrate your successes—no matter how small they may be.

What's Your Motivation, and other weight-loss and fitness tips from Bob Greene, Oprah's trainer.