How are your goals for 2018 coming along so far? Did you set goals? Did you follow the cardinal rules of goal setting – making sure they’re specific and measurable? Have you been measuring so you know how you’re doing?
It’s great to have aspirations, but when you take the next step to have specific measurable goals and you take the time to measure your progress on regular intervals, that is where the real magic happens. That is how aspirations become your new reality. The process is gradual and usually doesn’t feel very magical on a day to day basis. However, when you look back on what you’ve accomplished you will no doubt marvel at the magic!
Another tip is to think about what type of goal is meaningful to you. Losing 10 lbs is great if that’s what you want to do, but what does that mean to you? Fitting into a dress you haven’t been able to wear? Feeling more confident lounging around the pool? Ok, that may be motivating to some, but what if you could hike your favorite trail without getting out of breath? Or what if you could be the mom at the playground that can keep up with her kids on the monkey bars? What about being the cool grandparent that can get down on the floor and play with the grandkids? What about being able to go on amusement park rides and fit into the seat comfortably? How about completing a 5K? Half marathon?
Last year I set my sights on obstacle course racing for the first time. In the process I got stronger, I lost body fat, I felt more comfortable in a bathing suit, and I can definitely keep up on the monkey bars now! None of those were my main goals – my main goal was completing an obstacle course race, yet along the way I experienced so many other benefits. Had I just been focused on the scale, or my appearance, or building muscle, I probably would not have had the conviction to stick with it. It’s in those small moments of decision that major changes are made! Choosing the healthier option is an easier choice when you have a solid goal in mind and a path to get to it.
I recently visited Burn Boot Camp in Bluffton, SC and they had a great board up with everyone’s goals for 2018 on a sticky note. Many memo notes focused on weight loss goals. Some focused on performance goals like being able to get across the monkey bars, or do a full push-up, or unassisted pull-up. My absolute favorite goal was “Show up consistently 4 days a week.” How brilliant! All that person has to do is show up for workouts and the goal will be achieved. Imagine the progress that person will be making if she shows up and puts full effort into the workout 4 days a week consistently!
So what can you do today to refine your goals and start taking action? Please share in the comments below or on my Facebook page for some accountability!
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