On Target Wellness: How to Set Achievable Goals for a Healthier You
The start of a new year usually brings about resolutions related to health and wellness. Goals such as losing weight, eating healthier, and being more physically active are common. However, despite our good intentions, these goals often fall by the wayside as the year progresses. It’s not just a lack of commitment that gets in the way; often, the goals we set are not achievable or sustainable in the long term. In this article, we will discuss how to set achievable goals for a healthier you.
Step One: Define Goals that are Specific, Measurable, and Realistic
The first step in setting an achievable goal is to make sure it is specific and measurable. Goals such as “I want to be healthier” are too vague and open to interpretation. It’s essential to pinpoint precisely what you want to achieve and set measurable metrics. For example, saying “I want to lose 10 pounds in two months” is a specific, measurable goal.
The second step is to make sure it is a realistic goal. Goals should challenge you, but they should also be achievable. Setting lofty goals that you have no chance of meeting can lead to frustration and discouragement. Before you commit to a goal, assess your resources, and make sure it is realistic.
Step Two: Break Goals down into Smaller, Manageable Steps
Sometimes, our goals can seem daunting, especially when we are trying to make significant lifestyle changes. To make your goals more achievable, you can break them down into smaller, more manageable steps. For example, if your goal is to start running, start with a small distance and incrementally increase it over time.
Breaking goals down into smaller steps also helps track progress and keeps you motivated. It’s essential to celebrate each step and milestone, no matter how small, to remain consistently motivated and encouraged.
Step Three: Find Accountability and Support
Having accountability and support is crucial in achieving your goals. Find someone you trust to keep you accountable. It could be a friend, family member, or a professional such as a fitness trainer or wellness coach. They will help you stay on track and provide guidance and support when you need it.
In addition to accountability, finding a support system can help you through tough times. Having someone to talk to during setbacks or moments of doubt can make all the difference in staying motivated and focused on the goal.
Step Four: Adopt an Attitude of Self-Compassion
Setting achievable goals for a healthier you is not just about diet and exercise. It’s also about cultivating a mindset of self-compassion. When we encounter setbacks or disappointments, it’s easy to become self-critical and engage in negative self-talk. However, self-compassion means treating ourselves with kindness and understanding.
It is essential to acknowledge the efforts made so far. If you go off track, don’t beat yourself up. Instead, acknowledge that setbacks happen, get up, and try again. Having an attitude of self-compassion allows us to move forward with resilience and determination.
Conclusion
Setting achievable goals for a healthier you is about more than willpower. It’s about setting goals that are specific, measurable, and realistic, breaking them down into manageable steps, finding accountability and support, and cultivating an attitude of self-compassion. By following these steps, you can set goals that are achievable and sustainable in the long term. Remember, every small step you take towards your goal is an accomplishment, so celebrate your progress along the way.
