Is it possible to get a motivation pill? I am certainly in need of one. All the things I strive to do just seem to go by the wayside - and then I get annoyed because in truth the only person I am cheating is myself.

For example - I was determined to lose some weight in time for the summer holidays. Set myself some realistic goals (2lb a week) but not done a thing about it.

I was in the wilds of Essex last week on my way back from a meeting, when I went past a McDonalds. I had spotted it on the way to the meeting and had filed away in my mind an idea that I could stop there for a late lunch on the way home. Told myself this wasn't part of the diet regime - but nevertheless on the way home I drive in.

As I'm going through the drive thru my virtuous side is arguing with my tummy about what should be ordered. I decide to have a happy meal - it will satisfy the hunger and give a junk food fix - without going mad.

Next thing I know I have ordered a Big Mac and Chips. I sat there looking at it, wondering what I was doing and how could this be part of a calorie controlled diet - unless I am trying to control my calories at 5000 a day. Anyway I ate it - couldn't quite manage it all - and it was very nice too.

I told myself that I wouldn't eat much in the evening to compensate (another little trick I like to pretend to do). Unfortunately by the time I had got home it was late - hubby was in charge of the evening meal and it was a trip to the chip shop all round...