1. Never miss a morning!

Getting in at least 1,000 first thing in the morning will get your day started in the right direction. NO EXCUSES! Take at least a 15-20 min walk around the block or a nearby park. You can also use this time to mentally prepare for the day. Whether you meditate, pray, or make a mental to do list for the day, this will help to begin your day with a positive attitude that will allow you to reach your goals.

2. Use the Buddy System.

Remember, when you were in kindergarten and your teacher would buddy you up on field trips so no one would get lost. The same concept applies here. When we have a companion, we are less likely to veer off track. Find a friend, co-worker, family member or four legged friend to accompany as you go for a walk, jog, or run throughout the day. Going for a walk with your kids at the end of the day is also a great way to catch up on the events of their day while simultaneously setting an example of a positive, active lifestyle.

3. It’s good have goals.

Set a goal of taking 1,000 steps per hour. At the very minimum at the top of every hour get up and get moving. Whether you are at work and walking to say hello to a co-worker or at home and making an extra trip to the washing machine get out of your seat and get in some steps.Studies have shown that “interspersing short movements and exercises throughout the workday can boost employee energy, engagement and efficiency.” While it may seem counterintuitive to take these small breaks throughout the day, they will actually increase your productivity and get you one step closer to your goal.

4. Don’t Take the Short-Cuts.

Look for little ways to increase your steps throughout the day. Instead of driving around the parking lot for 15 minutes looking for that “perfect spot” seek out one that is near the back of the parking lot and get in a few hundred extra steps. When you are at the airport and the moving sidewalks seems like the way to go, do not step on. While at the grocery store take a lap around the perimeter before you start your shopping. Take the stairs as opposed to an elevator or escalator. All of these are small changes that will add up in the long run.

5. Walk while you talk.

We all spend a lot of our day talking on the phone to clients, friends, spouses, and/or co-workers. Take these opportunities to walk as you talk. You will be so distracted by your conversation you won’t even realize all of the extra steps you are taking! Don’t let that fitness tracker get the best of you! Using these five simple steps you will easily be on your way to 10,000 steps!