Previously, I shared how to use SMART goal setting to help you maintain your fitness and diet routine while on the road. You'll recall that SMART goals are: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timely. For a particularly hectic trip, I defined several SMART goals for myself, and I promised you a follow up article to share my lessons learned.

1. Get at least 60 minutes of cardiovascular exercise during the trip.

When traveling, take advantage of unexpected downtime to get in a quick workout.

This turned out to be a no-brainer. The first day's client meetings ended early, leaving me with an unexpected time bonus. I successfully avoided the work pressure of email and the peer pressure of happy hour. I let the rest of the group go to the bar, while I went to the gym. This early workout got my trip off to a good start and set the tone for the rest of the trip.

Lesson Learned: Take advantage of unexpected downtime to get in a quick workout.

Lesson Learned: Early successes can set the stage for continued success throughout the trip. Look for ways to achieve small goals on your first day of travel.

Lesson Learned: Your personal time belongs to you, even when you're on the road. Use it wisely to achieve your priorities, not someone else's.

2. Eat no more than two cookies during the trip.

Just because everyone else is ordering a high-calorie dessert doesn't mean you have to; opt for a more healthful dish after dinner.

By packing healthy snacks, I ate well during the client meetings. What I didn't realize, however, was that I was going to be eating dinner every night with people who ordered drinks, appetizers, AND dessert. As I said last month, my resolve evaporates if others are eating and I'm not, so dinners proved to be my downfall for healthy eating. (CONTINUE...)