Motivated Reader:
Do you struggle with goal setting? I have experimented with many techniques to set good goals that stick, keep me motivated and help me reach the outcomes I desire. I’m sure you have done your share as well. Do you seem to fall short too frequently?
Below are some techniques to keep you focused and motivated:
- Reframe your goals. Like affirmations, goals are more effective when they are stated in a positive
manner rather than as something you “shouldn’t” do. For instance, a positive goal might be: To maintain a healthy body weight. A negative goal might be: To not eat sweets. - Be realistic. Sticking with the diet analogy, a goal to exercise for 2 hours a day for the next year is going to be very difficult to maintain. A goal that slightly increases you current level of activity would be more achievable. You can always name a new goal once you maintain that level for some time.
- Watch you mouth.Notice how you speak about your goals. Saying, “I want to lose weight” is a wish. Saying, “I am dropping weight while I’m getting healthier and healthier” is ia statement of fact. This can be way more motivating than the weaker wishes.
- Work backwards. Sometimes a long term goal seems good, but if you never break it down to baby steps, you can never meet it. I like to set the goal: To be slim and fit. Then define HOW WILL I KNOW THIS: I will weigh _____; I will be able to ______; I will wear size ____. Then I can define further: to weigh xxx, each day I will eat 9 servings of fruits and vegetables each day, drink 32 oz of water, etc. This seems to reinforce how short term actions build to long term goals.
- Build habits. Your habits do build your life. Even behaviors like positive self talk or being more mindful take conscious practice and consistent repetition to become part of our being.
If you would like to share an experience, please comment on this blog; I’d love to hear from you. If you would like assistance in managing this or other emotional challenges, please contact our offices at 850-226-8585 or visit our website at www.SoundsideWellness.com.
Thank you for being exactly who you were meant to be and come back and visit my blog again!
~Allison
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