Many of us have set goals but failed, in one way or another, to meet them. It is high time you succeed in achieving exactly what you set out to do. Here are three simple steps to make it happen.
Define Your Goal
First, define your goal using the following criteria. Your goal must be specific and measurable. The goal “to lose weight” is too vague. Instead you might aim to “lose 10 pounds in the next 12 weeks”. This is clearly stated and achievable. Your goal must be realistic based on your current level of fitness and time available to train. For dietary goals, be realistic about how many changes you can take on at once. Set a goal that you can accomplish within 3 months. Quarterly goals may support a larger year-end goal. Your goal must be challenging. If it is too easy, you will not be as motivated or excited to work towards it.
Make a Plan
Now that you have defined your goal, you need a plan to get you there. If your goal is fitness related (ex: “Run a 10K”), you should make a weekly training schedule as well as a week by week progression leading up to the event. You should know exactly what you are supposed to be doing each day between now and race day (don’t wing it!).
If you are focusing on nutrition goals, write out a plan that specifies one or two significant but approachable changes per week. Start with your biggest challenges first to get quicker results and reap the motivational benefits that follow.
Keep a Journal
This is how you will hold yourself accountable. In your journal you will track details about your workouts, what you ate, your weight and measurements, unexpected challenges, modifications to your plan, and other personal notes. You will feel a sense of satisfaction when you stick to your plan and write it down as proof that you did it.
Get started today. Define your goal, make a plan, track your progress, and achieve what you set out to do. You will gain a sense of gratification and pride that will motivate you to set a new goal and reach even greater heights.
