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TURNING GOALS INTO HABITS
In the fitness world, we focus on goal-setting and creating healthy habits. We go to the gym, walk outside or swim in the pool to make improvements to our health. Making that first step requires setting some sort of goal. Once we set those goals we eventually want them to turn into habits. In this blog, I want to share with you how to be aware of your current habits and tips for creating new ones.
CREATING HEALTHY HABITS
The first step to creating healthy habits is to become aware of your current unhealthy habits. Are you someone who unintentionally eats? You may be someone who snacks or eats your dinner in front of the television. Pay attention to how much more you eat when you are distracted versus intentionally eating. If you are that person, eat at the dinner table and pay attention to how much you need to eat to feel satisfied. Maybe you create bad habits in the gym. Do you have a workout plan when you are there? Do you make the gym a social hour instead of a workout hour? Becoming aware of your unhealthy habits is not a time to beat yourself up. Think of it as taking the time to make improvements to your lifestyle.
USING THE S.M.A.R.T. TECHNIQUE
Next, you need to make a plan for change. Here is an acronym I use with all of my clients called SMART goals.
(S) Specific: Make your goals specific. You need to have direct and detailed goals.
(M) Measurable: Your progress needs to be trackable. Create goals to evaluate your success.
(A) Attainable: The goals should be realistic. Make sure you have the resources to attain your goals.
(R) Relevant: Be honest with yourself. Make sure your goals can be accomplished in your lifestyle.
(T) Timely: Your goals need deadlines. Deadlines help keep you accountable.
ACCOUNTABILITY
After you have set your goals, staying on track can be the hardest part. Surround yourself with people who are interested in your goals. Become part of a community who has the same values and similar goals compared to yours. Podcasts are a great way to do this if you don’t have friends supporting your growth. Remember, you can also hire a coach. There are so many coaches to choose from whether it is a personal trainer, nutrition coach, life coach or therapist. There are always professionals who want to help you improve your well-being.
Chelsey Greenwood
HUB Sports & Fitness Coordinator
