We all have a favorite excuse: "There's not enough time." "I'll do it next week." "I'm too stressed from work." They just pop into our heads. The thing is, once you get moving, exercise isn't so bad. What excuses tend to creep into your mind? Do you let them win every time? How will you overcome your exercise devil-on-the-shoulder?

There have been all kinds of scientific studies about the health benefits of smiling. While it's important to express all types of feelings, smiling is something we sometimes forget to do. Do you smile often enough? How about when meeting someone new? At a cashier or store clerk? Do you like it when people smile at you? Do some research—what can you find out about smiling?

Trying new things is an adventure. So many times, we make tried and true choices, but could stand for a little change. For instance, have you tried Quinoa or Bok Choy? Both are unique choices that add color and nutrients to any dish. What are some unique healthy foods you like? How do you use them in meals? Do you frequent farmer's markets or other destinations for outside-of-the-box foods?

It's as if kids have a never-ending supply of energy. Just trying to keep up can wear you out, but that's not a bad thing. Playing with kids is as rewarding for you as it is for them. If you don't have any of your own, volunteering at a local church or YMCA will get you involved. Do you get active along with the kids in your life? How often? Any games or activities you find particularly invigorating?

Remember to celebrate the goals you achieve, even if it's something small, like eating more vegetables at lunch. You don't have to go all out, but simply treating yourself to a new piece of clothing, or taking some extra time to relax can be deeply rewarding. Celebrating reinforces that what you're accomplishing is important, and — yes! — you can be successful at it. What's the next goal you plan on reaching? How will you celebrate?

You've just been through a lot, but at the same time you're eager to get back in shape. Be careful. It's important to ease back into exercise and build a nice foundation of muscle. Have you tried to lose weight after having a baby? How did it work out? How do you plan to approach post-pregnancy weight loss in the future?

Eating out for lunch is convenient, especially if you work away from home. However, restaurant food can be shockingly high in calories. How often do you eat lunch out? Do you try to make healthy choices? What can you do to incorporate more food groups into your lunch?

Food journaling may seem like a chore, but it can be fun! Add doodles, pictures, and notes to yourself. Just write down all the foods (yes, every sugar packet in your coffee) you eat for a week, or even just a day. And no cheating! This is a private journal, just for you, so be honest. Try some of these category ideas: Food, Quantity, Time, Current Mood. When you're done, tell us what you've learned from this experience. Did anything surprise you? Did you find any patterns? Did the journal help you stay on track?

When it comes to the benefits of eating fish, you should fall for the positive research hook, line, and sinker. Not all fish have a strong flavor, some are quite mild and it's recommended to eat fish at least twice a week for various health benefits (not for kids or pregnant women). Are you getting enough fish in your diet? What kinds of fish do you like? Can you recommend any tasty sauces? Good side dishes?

Having a hobby that gets you moving is a fun way to burn calories, but you don't have to be an Olympic athlete. Tending a garden or running around looking for sales can count too (let's face it, shopping is practically a sport). Do you have any hobbies that get you moving? Have you ever kept track of how many calories you burn while doing what you already enjoy? Have you considered a step-counter to record how much you move day-to-day? Are there any hobbies you'd like to try?