It’s great to have long-term fitness goals, but it’s important to celebrate the small victories as well.

Here are some things worth celebrating . . . but not with a big piece of chocolate cake. Just sayin’.

1. Load at least half your plate with veggies and refrain from smothering them in butter.

2. Choose water over pop or concentrated juices, which are high in sugar.

3. Make only one trip to the entrée table at the buffet and eat fruit for dessert. Don’t think you have to get your money’s worth. Your health is worth far more than the most expensive buffet.

4. Tame your sweet tooth by limiting gooey desserts to one day per week.

5. Split a dessert when you go to the local coffee shop with a friend and order a small beverage instead of a medium or large.

6. Prepare your grocery list before you go shopping and stick to it. Avoid those impulse buys.

7. Now check that shopping cart. Replace just one item with a healthier choice.

8. Give yourself extra time so you can walk or bike instead of hopping in your car.

9. Add one more workout to your week.

10. Get up early to exercise before you head into your day.

11. Take your local gym up on their offer for a free pass. Who knows? You may find new friends and new motivation.

12. Play ball with your family rather than plopping in front of the TV.

13. Go for a swim instead of ice cream – though ice cream is OK occasionally. (See #4 above.)

14. Take the stairs instead of the elevator.

15. Park at the back of the lot. It will only take you a few extra minutes to get to the store. Plus, you won’t have to play a game of chicken with another driver to get the spot next to the door.

16. Meet your friends at the park and go for a walk while you’re catching up on the latest news.

17. Plan a family vacation that provides the opportunity for lots of physical activity.

18. Incorporate even one of these suggestions into your week.

Stephanie Nickel, CLD, PTS is a freelance writer and editor, a labour doula, and a personal trainer.