Goal Setting in the New Year

It is at this time of year more than any other, we start to take stock of our lives and make decision about how to improve ourselves.  Setting goals and following through with them are a great way to make changes in your life. Below are some guidelines on setting goals for the new year.

• Set goals that can be measured

Specific goals are more effective. An effective goal clearly indicates what you need to do to accomplish the task. This means that you must be able to measure the performance that relates to the specific goal. For example,  I need to spend less time on the computer… should be…I will spend 30 minutes less a day on social media.

• Set realistic goal.

Goals should not be so big that you experience failure and frustration in trying to reach them.

• Set short-term as well as long-term goals.

Break down any long-term goals into smaller more attainable goals, this will help to promote success, and keep you motivated.  If your goal is to lose weight, your short term goals might be to start drinking 1 liter of water a day,  incorporate three – 30 minute walks  per week and to go swimming for 40 minutes every Thursday after dinner.

Once a specific goal has been chosen, make sure that it also includes a target date for accomplishing what you set out to achieve.

• Goals should not be “set in stone.”

Life sometimes gets “in-the-way” of our goal; so your goals may need to be revised in order to achieve them. Don’t feel discouraged if you need to “tweak” your original goal… stay positive.

Many folks use the SMART formula when setting goals:

S – Specific: A specific goal is simple and easy to describe. Stating that you will start an exercise program is not specific. A specific goal is… I will start an evening yoga class two nights a week to improve my flexibility.

M – Measurable: You need to be able to tell if you are achieving your goal.

Be specific about the outcome of each step. “I’ll enroll online this evening and start with a Monday morning class.  I’ll practice at home 3 evenings a week.” That’s measurable!

 A – Achievable: Don’t schedule 4 fitness practices when you know that your job will interfere with your ability to get to the gym. A better goal is to state that you will practice twice a week…. Remember you can always adjust your goals.

 R – Be Realistic: If you haven’t been exercising, and you’ve never done any fitness classes before,  sign up for a beginner class! Signing up for an intensive workout class will sabotage your goals.

 T – Timely: Set a clear time frame to achieve your goal.

Always take time to celebrate your achievements. Reward your hard work along the way as you achieve the small goals, such as booking a massage session to celebrate.

Whatever system you decide to use, remember to stay positive, know that there will be set backs, and surrounding yourself with positive people who will be your cheerleaders!