Don't Go Crazy: Setting Fitness Goals You Can Reach
By Genevieve Cunningham
Part of finding better health is setting goals and then meeting them. This is what keeps us motivated and moving forward. But to be honest, this is also one of the hardest parts about a fitness journey. How do you know what goals to set? And how do you make sure they’re attainable? In order to avoid going crazy with your goals and setting things that are impossible, take a look at these tips for setting goals that you can really reach.
Evaluate the Possibilities
In order to set proper fitness goals, you have to be real about what’s possible. Losing 100 pounds in a week is not possible. Losing 10 pounds in a week is not possible. Evaluate what’s possible so that you’re setting yourself up for success. One pound in a week? Possible. Ten pounds in a month? Difficult, but possible. Before you set any goals in stone, be realistic about what you want versus what you can achieve, and go from there.
Start Small
The smaller the goal, the better. When you set a goal that is too lofty, you're more likely to lose motivation before you ever get there. It's a tough cycle! If you set out to lose 20 pounds, make your first goal one or two pounds. Make it a goal to go down one pant size instead of six. This gives you the opportunity to be successful multiple times along your journey. And the more times you feel successful, the more likely you are to stick with it.
Use Different Measuring Sticks
Don’t forget that the scale is not the only measuring tool. If you’re open to finding success in other ways, you’ve expanded the possibilities immensely. Look to your clothes or inches lost to find success. Try to get off of a medication, lower blood pressure consistently, or feel better in the mornings. There are many, many ways to measure success. Set goals accordingly, and you’ll be far better off in your quest for better health.
If you learn to set solid realistic goals, you’re setting yourself up for ultimate success and a long-term healthy lifestyle. Use these tips to set goals that work for you in your life. With some trial and error, you can keep yourself moving forward and toward better health every day.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Porter Ranch, Calif.