How many times have you set yourself some goals, only to find that within a couple of weeks they have gone completely out the window?
Well, you’re not alone.
One reason for why this happens is that the goal is a bit vague, e.g. "eat healthy and exercise more".
To start with you are motivated and focused, but then... the goal gets lost in everyday things – work, school, chores... etc.
🤔 So can you stick to your resolutions?
😃 Yes, but you have to make your goals realistic and have a plan.
A good way to set goals is to use the SMART framework:
📝 Specific – What do you want to accomplish and what will you do to achieve it?
📏 Measureable – How will you track of your changes?
🤩 Achievable – Is the goal actually achievable? It is great to challenge yourself, but not so much that you feel overwhelmed and give up.
😍 Relevant – Why is the goal important? What are the benefits? Make your goal meaningful.
📅 Time-bound – what is your time-frame? An end-date helps to provide motivation and keeps you focused.
If you haven’t achieved your goal in the timeframe, take time to consider why. Maybe it was unrealistic or your goal was unachievable, or maybe there were some unexpected barriers that got in your way.
The SMART framework allows you to make a plan and set boundaries; as well as allowing you to see what resources or support you might need. Maybe you need a nutritionist to help with dietary goals or an exercise partner to help keep you motivated.
Examples of SMART goals are:
✔️“eat healthy” becomes “I will add one extra serve of green vegetables to dinner three times this week.”
✔️ “exercise more” becomes “walk with a friend, after work for 20 minutes three times a week.”
Once you achieve your initial goals you can build on your successes.
Focus on positive actions rather than looking to what you should avoid or limit. Look to where you can add in healthy foods or more movement, rather than what you should take out.
If you have set yourself the general “eat healthy and exercise more” resolution, maybe you can have a go at SMARTening it up.
Download my "setting SMART goals guide" to help you start making goals that you can achieve. 💚
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