Do you remember the last time you set a goal for yourself? I remember my last big goal was to graduate from college with a bachelors degree. If I had thought right out of the start gate that I had to rush through everything to get there I would have been truly disappointed with myself and would have quit. To truly be satisfied I had to work hard to get that diploma.
Because I took my time and experienced everything, the networking, professors, discussions with peers, test taking, and clubs, I truly felt I had become a well-rounded person, as cliche as that may sound.
I'll never regret the journey. I'll always carry with me the knowledge and wisdom that comes with being a student.
Even the strongest athletes had to start somewhere. Their strength and motivation didn't just happen overnight. They trained everyday and learned to change their lifestyle to reach the top.
That goal and how I obtained it was one I kept stored in my mind even as I embarked on my weight loss journey. If I could do the college thing why couldn't I do the weight loss thing? I applied those same principles to my new goals.
Mini goals are what I remember vividly and I still go through this process today. Here are some things to consider:
Plan - Wake up each morning with a plan for the day. It might not always come to fruition but at least you have somewhere to start.
Take Baby Steps - Mini goals are baby steps. Start with knowing how you'll handle your morning and once you get past that have the next step ready to embark on. Maybe it's just drinking your water.
Do Your Homework - Make it a habit to learn something new about your health, eating, and exercise. The fun part is finding out new ways to enjoy the process and there's a plethora of information to incorporate into your new lifestyle.
Slow And Steady Wins The Race - Take your time and enjoy the changes that are happening inside and out. Make sure the goals you set are your goals and no one else. I remember thinking that a wedding was coming up and I'd better hurry to fit into my dress! I never got there any thinner or healthier.
Stop Beating Yourself Up! - The day I realized I was human and made mistakes was the day I knew I would be alright. You will cheat. Give yourself a break! I just tell myself the next meal I'll get on track, the next time I exercise I'll add a little more weight lifting. There's always another day. Don't give up! Learn from your mistakes.
Celebrate! - However your day unfolds find one thing you did right. Celebrate everything you're doing. Maybe you just invited a friend to join you in your new exercise routine. There's always something.
Mini Goals are important and for me that's how I get through everyday. Try some of your own and you'll end up being a winner too!
No comments:
Post a Comment