Obstacle: Some day you're going to be so worn out or busy that when you remember you still have to exercise, you'll feel like crying or crawling into bed. It happens to everyone, including me. Okay, we've already addressed time management and types of exercise. The last big piece of the fitness puzzle is finding the energy.

Overcome it: The enemy to your energy is drain. Drains to your energy may include not getting a good night's sleep, having an argument, overeating, undereating, too much sugar, too much wine, frustration? the list goes on. Again, a journaling exercise can help raise your awareness, and point to a solution. Make two columns in your notebook and write a list of energy drains on one side, and "things that pick me up" on the other.

Here are five "pick-me-ups" you can add to your list:

1. Sit for 10 minutes with a book or magazine.
2. Lay on the floor, butt up to the wall, with feet elevated upward; close eyes and take 10 deep breaths.
3. "Breaths of fire" -- 10 short, quick breaths.
4. Tea time -- sit and enjoy a cup of low-caffeine green tea.
5. Take a short, brisk walk around the office or the block.

More Tips:

• Reduce the potential for drain by limiting alcohol intake, maximizing sleep and relaxation times and eating well (four meals a day of 300-400 calories each; every meal has protein, carbs and a little fat -- my Meal Makeovers should give you some great meal suggestions).
  
  
• Do something active upon waking. Take a warm shower and do some stretches before even leaving your bedroom. Use each stretch as an opportunity to calm and focus your mind.
  
  
• Remember, exercise actually creates energy. If you can just get yourself out the door, I promise that within three minutes of getting your body moving, you'll feel a lift. That should stay with you for hours after your workout is over.

*Note: If you are experiencing consistently low energy levels for no apparent reason, you may want to schedule a checkup to rule out anemia, or a low-iron condition.