"For 2005, vow to love yourself and make the changes you've always wanted to make but never committed yourself to," says alternative health expert and motivational speaker Loree Taylor Jordan, CCH, I.D.

" Make a real investment in yourself. There can be no payoff if the investment is never made."

Jordan knows about making positive changes in her life. She's overcome some obesity, sugar addiction and the urge to go on yo-yo diets. She's embraced a more-informed, proactive lifestyle that leaves her happier and healthier. Her new book, Fat and Furious: Overcome Your Body's Resistance To Weight Loss Now!, provides a good start if you're looking to improve your health, lose weight, and embrace a positive body image.

Jordan recommends the following confidence-boosters, which will put you in a better frame of mind and position to tackle life's major issues:

• Pamper yourself. Go for a massage, manicure, facial or a pedicure – or all of the above!
• you have unique qualities and deserve only the best in life. If you need to be reminded of your positive attributes, ask your friends and family to help you.
• Try something new and daring to boost your self-confidence. Get your body moving in a way it has never experienced.
• Look in the mirror and see the most beautiful smile!

Eliminate toxic people and associates who don't give you the appreciation you deserve. Who needs people around you who are fearing you, when you are trying so hard to build yourself up?

With the New Year almost upon us, Jordan suggests you incorporate any and all of the following resolutions into your list of changes for 2005:

1. I promise to drink 8-10 glasses of purified water daily.

2. I vow to get 7-9 hours of restful sleep nightly.

3. I will abstain from coffee, cigarettes, and recreational drugs.

4. I am going to limit alcohol intake to one or two drinks a week.

5. I promise to participate in daily exercise for at least 30 minutes a week.

6. I will have a trainer or exercise buddy to help keep me accountable.

7. I vow to take my vitamins and supplements everyday.

8. I am going to see doctors for check-ups, the dentist for cleanings, and a chiropractor for structural support.

Jordan recommends your list of resolutions be made into a written contract – signed and dated. "Give yourself the best possible gift you could ever get – a healthy body and a peaceful mind."