Are You Really Hungry?

When you're fancying something to eat, stop before you reach the fridge and take a stock check. Are you really hungry? Are you just thirsty? Or are you just feeling bored, sad, lonely, or even happy? Think about what you really want.

If you are actually hungry, make sure you choose foods that will fuel and fill your body.

And if you're feeling bored, sad, lonely or even happy, turn to something other than food. If you're bored, paint your nails. Sad or lonely? Phone a friend or go for a walk - the endorphins will make you feel better. And if you're happy, celebrate - but celebrate by hanging out with your friends, rather than by eating.

Make Yourself Accountable

Tell people that you're on a diet. The more people that know you're on a diet, the more people you'll be accountable to - and the more people you're accountable to, the more difficult it will be for you to fail.

It'll motivate you, knowing that other people know - and knowing that they care about where you end up. And if people say to you, "You don't have to diet" - but you know that you're overweight, ignore what they have to say. You're doing the right thing!

Be Careful In Front Of The TV

Mindless eating occurs most frequently after dinner, once you've settled down for the night in front of the television.

Keep a bowl of chopped fruit to hand that you can reach for instead of potato chips or sip on a glass of milk instead of reaching for a glass of beer. It might feel like you'll never satisfy your cravings with these changes, but you will!

A Bit Of What You Fancy Does You Good

Dieting is boring, and if you deny yourself the odd treat, takeaway or meal out with your family and friends, you'll soon feel thoroughly fed up. Have a little bit of what you fancy now and then, or designate one day a week as your "treat day", so that you have something to look forward to. Never, ever deprive yourself.

Read More: New Year, New You - 5 of the Best Diet Tips

Have A Goal In Mind

Be it a goal weight, a goal size, a goal figure or even just a goal frame of mind - have something to work towards.

Having something in mind, or even a day or event that you'd like to lose weight for will really boost your confidence and will keep you fighting to get those pounds off.

Knowing exactly what you're aiming for helps to structure your diet and exercise plans. It allows you to break down your ultimate goal into smaller, more manageable milestones. A defined goal allows you to measure your progress in a concrete way. This can be very satisfying and encouraging, as you can see the results of your hard work.