Weight Watchers: I like this program because you learn to eat in a healthy manner with the foods you would normally buy (versus food plans). It's been around for decades, (I was on it in my mid-20's), probably because it is a successful program for weight loss. The founders have made it even easier to succeed by offering their food in the frozen food section of your grocery store.

Nutri- System: I know many people who have lost weight quickly on this program, but few have been able to maintain the loss. I think it is primarily due to the fact that the meals are pre-packaged so there is not sufficient training in preparing your own dishes down the line. Nonetheless, if you are looking for a quick fix, Nutrisystem might be what you are looking for.

Jenny Craig: ditto to the above.

The Atkins Diet : This is my diet of choice and has been for 7 years. I love that heavy cream, sauces, cheeses, meats are all part of the plan. The only thing I really miss is pasta; but I treat myself now and then to a big bowl of ravioli when I just can't stand the void a minute longer. I have lost and maintained my weight within a few pounds of my desired goal since 1999. Of course, if you are a vegetarian or hate cheese, this would not be a good program for you!

Working Out: Dieting alone is not going to give you the transformation which you are hoping to achieve. I hate to use the "e" word, but exercise is mandatory. Joining a gym is the most obvious route, but could be financially out of the question. There are other means which are free: walking, jogging, or in-home exercise plans.

eDiets.com will set up a diet and fitness plan specific to your individual needs and track your progression while offering on-line forums so that you may commiserate with others on the program, as well as a 24-hour support hotline. Check it out! In 2004 and 2005 eDiets.com was named Best of the Web by Forbes Magazine in the Diet and Nutrition category.

Lastly, for my female visitors, take the new you to the last step and gift yourself with a complete makeover: hair, makeup, and clothing. Purchase "Color Me Beautiful" to find the colors which work best for you at your current age - even if you read the book twenty years ago, your coloring is different. Try out different hairstyles with "Cosmopolitan Virtual Makeover". (You'll need a digital camera in order to upload your own picture.) Although this particular software program is lacking in some areas, the $20 price tag beats the $800 for a professional version!

Go to your local department store or beauty shop and sign up for a makeup application so that you can learn the current trends in applying makeup.