Building a healthy lifestyle begins with a simple equation.
Goal setting + Small changes = HEALTHY LIFESTYLE
I know, looks simple, but in reality, it is very difficult.
Let’s break it down!
Starting with goal setting!
We have all heard of SMART Goals, but what does that actually mean?
Specific – narrow your goal down
Measurable – define your goal so you know when you hit it
Achievable – make it something that can be reached
Relevant – it needs to be important to you
Time frame – give yourself time to get it done, so it isn’t just sitting out there with a someday attitude.
My suggestion when setting goals for yourself is to set a long-term/ larger goal, and then break it down to smaller/shorter term goals. By setting a long-term goal you can see where you want to end, this is usually the “Ultimate Goal”. Breaking this long-term goal into smaller goals will help this long-term goal become much more doable and realistic while also providing you with “Wins” along the way to keep you motivated.
Once your goals are set you can begin implementing these goals. The smaller goals can be broken down into small daily changes. These small daily changes, done regularly enough, will enable you to turn small changes into daily habits. When we form these habits, they become second nature, and you can begin to add more small changes. After so many of these small changes begin to take hold and become habits, you will see your goals become attainable.
I know, we have all heard all this before. So, let’s put it into context.
Your larger goals would be –
I will lose 30 pounds by the end of the year; I will do this by working out.
A smaller goal may be –
I will lose 2.5 pounds a month. I will start losing this weight by going to the gym daily, I will work my way up from being at the gym for 15 minutes up to 1 hour by the end of the second month.
This goal will begin with just getting to the gym then it will transform to increased workout times as well as increased workout intensity/difficulty.
By breaking the larger goal down to a smaller goal of 2.5 pounds per month it becomes realistic, attainable, and healthy. If you have a bad day or even a bad week you still have plenty of time to get after it and make it up. Mentally, looking at the goal from a broken-down perspective of 2.5 pounds per week, it becomes easier to overcome challenges and setbacks rather than looking at a larger goal of 30 pounds total.
If you have any questions or would like to talk about forming habits, setting goals, and building a healthy lifestyle for the long haul please reach out to me!