Fitness resolution do’s and don’ts
Goal setting isn’t rocket science, but these common mistakes may doom even the most reasonable resolutions. Use this list of do’s and don’ts to set yourself up for success from the start.
Set Short Term Goals. While it’s reasonable to have an idea of a goal you’d like to reach in a year or six months, the sweeping magnitude of that long term commitment may be overwhelming. Set goals in a manageable time frame. For some, that may be a month, for some it may be a week, for others it may literally be hours. Keep the time frame small enough to ensure success. If you can’t commit to work out every day in a given week, then commit to exercise that particular night. If you’re not sure that you can stick to your diet for three days, then resolve to make a healthy choice at your next meal.
- Don’t: I want to lose weight
- Do: I’m going to skip dessert for one week
- Don’t: I’m going to start exercising
- Do: I’m going to run two miles before work tomorrow morning
- Don’t : I’m fat. I’m never eating ice cream again
- Do: I’m not going to buy ice cream at the store today
Set up specific methods for measuring success. In order to build on short term accomplishments, you must first be able to recognize them. Develop measurable standards for determining progress when setting your goals.
- Don’t: I’m going to exercise tonight
- Do: I’ll spend 30 minutes walking on the treadmill after work today
- Don’t: I want to be a faster runner
- Do: I’d like to run a February 5K in under 24 minutes
Acknowledge Accomplishments. Bolster your confidence to fortify commitment. When you reach a short term goal, take some time to enjoy and acknowledge your success.
- Don’t: I did great at that 5K, but I know I can do better
- Do: I did great at that 5K
- Don’t: I’ve been starving myself all week and I haven’t lost any weight
- Do: I’ve made healthy choices for an entire week
Resolutions become reality when you set yourself up for success. The gratification of reaching short term goals will inspire the level of motivation needed to get you through the tough challenges you’ll inevitably face along the way to long term success.
