They count calories: No matter what diet they followed, successful dieters shared the outlook that calories count, regardless of whether they were counting fats, "carbs," or using other diet systems. A journal that is specifically used for calorie counting can be extremely helpful in motivating ongoing success.

They self-monitor: Successful project participants made sure to weigh themselves at least once a week. Documenting your progress this way can supply positive feedback and keep you honest in the assessment of your progress.

They follow a high-carbohydrate, low-fat diet: "Good carbs," such as fruits, veggies, and high-fiber foods formed approximately 60% of participants’diets. Protein made up another 25% of their dietary intake with the remaining 15% from fat. These results seem to contradict the media attention directed toward low-carbohydrate diets.

Physical activity was key to their success: Walking was the number one choice of the successful dieters. They not only made time to exercise daily, they found ways to get the most exertion out of everyday activities.

They eat breakfast: Not only did the majority of the group eat breakfast every day, they ate more often — up to 5 meals and snacks per day. Think smaller portions, more often.