There are many ways to measure your current lifestyle. A short list wouldn’t be enough, so here’s a sequel for you. Take this self-assessment to determine the status of your health. Review your answers with your doctor to identify areas where improvement is needed…

1. Do you set calorie limits? Do you set calorie limits? If you’re trying to lose weight, it can be essential, especially if you’re new to weight loss. It’s hard to know how much you’re eating if you’re not completely familiar with your calorie requirements and the calories you’re consuming.

Counting calories is not necessary to lose weight, but it is beneficial.

2. Do you have a schedule to eat? As with calorie limits, you don’t need to have an eating plan per se. But if you need help getting going, implementing a diet plan can help.

With a few exceptions, two meals a day works for everyone. Choose two different times to eat, and eat only then. Maybe it’s lunch and dinner at 7, with no snacks in between. You shouldn’t need to eat anything in between.

3. What is your attitude towards exercise? Your attitude towards exercise speaks volumes. It’s even more important than the exercise you do because it dictates how much effort you put in.

Do you consider exercise as a way to take care of your body and your well-being? Or do you see it as a job with temporary benefits? The better your opinion of physical activity, the more you will look forward to it. Exercise doesn’t necessarily have to feel like work. It should feel like investing in your health, which makes any effort required worthwhile.

4. How do you eat? Do you eat quickly or take your time? Do you eat your carbs first or do you focus on protein? What do you drink with your meals? These questions shed light on how you eat, which might be hurting you in ways you’re not aware of.

You must eat slowly. Save your carbs for last because they are most likely already plentiful in your diet. And it goes without saying that water is better than soda. But don’t hesitate to make your juices.

5. What is your motivation to change? Lastly, ask yourself about your motivation. While it’s not directly a measure of your lifestyle, it influences your behavior in more ways than you realize. If your motivation to change is fueled by a drive to avoid complications from chronic illness, you’re more likely to succeed than if you just wanted to lose a few pounds. A diagnosis of type 2 diabetes can often be a wake-up call for action. But motivation can also be short-lived.

If you are going to be successful with your goals, make sure your motivation is not temporary. Remind yourself of the benefits of a healthy lifestyle and what you can gain by making changes.