Each day we have a chance to do better then we did the day before. Every year as December comes to a close and January approaches we have high hopes of making a difference from the year before. How many of us FAIL to truly commit to our goals?? I know I do!! I get all fired up and ready to go, and then I begin to slip. For 2011 it's a chance to create a NEW YOU!! Who's in?? START NOW...
Tips from Tosca Reno author of "The Eat Clean Diet."
Pick your goals and define each goal in one sentence. Make the sentence clear and concise. Putting your goals into words will help you visualize your path toward the target.
2. Make a detailed plan for each goal.
Set schedules, create positive incentives for yourself, identify which resources (such as time, space and money) you will need and, finally, define how you will maintain discipline in your plan. When I first started on my fitness journey I blocked off dates and times for the gym and made sure the kids had someone to look after them while I was working out. I created the time and space I needed to achieve the goals I had set for myself.
3. Set a reasonable time frame.
You’re much more likely to achieve your goal if you set out a reasonable time period. This goes especially for weight-loss or fitness goals – the more suitable your time frame, the more sustainable and maintainable the results will be. At first, I wanted to see instant results from the adjustments I had made in my life. Instead of weighing myself down with unrealistic expectations, I learned to be patient and satisfied with the results I did earn.
4. Post your goals where you’ll see them.
Put your goals in your wallet, on the bathroom mirror or in your office at work. Read them every day, reflect on them and don’t let them out of your mind. Awareness of your goals will help you stick to them when you’re facing a moment of weakness.
5. Reflect and reassess your plans (if need be).
Sometimes our original plan doesn’t go as we expected or is no longer effective. Regularly reflect on your goals and assess whether or not your game plan is helping you achieve them. If it's not, then figure out what you need to change.
6. Share your goals with someone you trust.
Having someone else in on your goals will help you reach them – you can never have too much support! Your confidante can offer you advice and motivation, or simply be there if you need to talk about your plan for the year. Once my kids understood my goals, they became my greatest cheerleaders and were able to support me through my journey. That type of support is priceless and it propelled me through the days when I felt like giving up.
7. Believe in your ability to achieve your goals!
Trust your capacity to reach the goals you’ve set for yourself. I know that if you follow the steps I’ve outlined in this newsletter and have faith in yourself, you will achieve everything you put your mind to!
