These lifestyle improvements may require some dramatic changes in your routine. But where do you start?

The American Diabetes Association warns against trying to change too much at once. It offers these suggestions:

• Take a number of small steps, over a sufficient amount of time. This should make accomplishing your goals much easier.
• Face your bad habits, and realize that you need to change them. Ask for help from family, friends and medical professionals, if you need it.
• Find a motivating goal -- wanting to be around when your grandchildren grow up, for example.
• Prioritize your changes. Complete goals that you're comfortable with initially, and save others for later.
• Look at how much impact these changes will make, and start with those that pack the biggest punch, such as getting more active.
• Setting goals should include what you'll do, how quickly you can accomplish it, and how to incorporate the task in your daily life.