Tips To Create Strong Goals

One of my favorite things to ask when someone is just getting their start in fitness is this “What do you want to achieve?” The answers usually range from “Lose weight” to “Be able to run X miles without stopping” That’s a great start but what truly helps you get there is setting intermittent goals.

A goal should be specific and have a time line. Just like work and school, you know what the assignment is and you know everything that needs to be done by that date. Depending on how big the assignment is, you may even break it down to smaller portions and smaller deadlines.
For example, when I first started running my goal was simply “Run a 5k without stopping”. I picked a race and that became my deadline. I then made a plan to workout three times a week. Each week had a goal. Sometimes it was “Run a mile as fast as possible ” other weeks it was “Run two miles without stopping” . I began to set time goals on my runs but kept the big picture on my mind.

If you are just starting out, ask yourself “What do you want to do? Picture it in your mind and get as detailed as possible. Then pick a realistic date for when you want to achieve that goal. Make sure it’s something realistic or you are setting yourself up for failure.

Then, you have to commit to this goal. This comes in many different ways. If nutrition is your goal, buy a planner and record everything you eat. Trust me, this doesn’t necessarily sound like fun but it will open your eyes to what may be causing issues. It will also keep you accountable because you know that you are recording what you eat.

If you like personal accountability, tell a friend! I would suggest getting with another friend who may have experience in what your goal is. If not, a friend still can help you and guide you. My friends and I text each other and see if we got our workout in or just check in to see how we are doing during training. My sweet friend Amanda is running her first marathon soon and she would post her workouts on Instagarm. Sometimes life gets in the way and that’s okay! It’s always important to get back on track.

Another great tip is to write it down. If you are a visual person, this is major for you. Write it down and post it where you will see it every day. Whether that means the fridge or your mirror, constantly remind yourself of your goals. Some days are hard and just plain bad but seeing your goal and your progress can help put everything in perspective.

And so you guys can see that I practice what I preach, I want to run a 4:10 marathon at the Houston Marathon in January!

Try these out and let me know what goals you have set for yourself!