“My goal for 2019 is to accomplish the goals of 2018 which I should have done in 2017 because I made a promise to myself in 2016 and planned in 2015″….Sound familiar?
Wanting to change yourself and better yourself is a beautiful and inspiring thing. And it turns out that’s also how most other people think: 50% of all Americans for example set themselves a New Year’s resolution.
My gym is packed in early January. All the new running shoes, running outfits and eager people fill the cardio room. They have little insight on how to properly exercise, but their resolution is to lose weight and get into shape. They buy the new over priced shoes they really don’t need for beginners, but they are ready to go and those shoes add a touch of inspiration. Hell, even the new outfit adds that step of eagerness on the dreadmill. I have been there, I get it.
Once your holiday decorations are packed up and stored away, the frustration of an unused gym membership, the empty journal on your night stand, the book you planned to start is unopened, or other reminders of failed resolutions can make the later winter months feel hopeless. Where did that anticipation of all that enthusiasm of the new year go?
However, it is important to remember that the New Year isn’t meant to serve as a catalyst for sweeping character changes. It is a time for people to reflect on their past year’s behavior and promise to make positive lifestyle changes. Use the baggage as a learning curve. Setting small, attainable goals throughout the year, instead of a singular, overwhelming goal on January 1st can help you reach whatever it is you strive for. By making your resolutions realistic, there is a greater chance that you will keep them throughout the year.
Having a buddy or a support system will help you achieve your goal. I recently started LIFT4 by beach body, and running again. I set a goal to run 2019 miles in 2019 and I am running the Columbus Half Marathon on April 27th. I have a running partner and without her, I wouldn’t make it a mile, but because of her I have made many miles in our 10 plus years of running together. Something I have never thought I would do is run. I have now logged over 30 races, but setting the goal of 2019 miles in 2019 is kinda cool and I know I can do it. My wife is doing this with me as well. We may not run together, but we will hold each other accountable. I cycle and lift, but to have that support from my running partner and my wife can pick me up on the days I don’t want to do it.
Fitness is the number one resolution each year. The second most common resolution is getting oneself back, to heal from a bad year and the third is to save money. All of these should be year round, but we seem to be in a click of making things happen for a new year. How did this mindset even start? I want the mindset of little goals thoughtout the year. I need the list, and I need to cross off that list. It equals success to me.
My advice is to start small and every week or even 30 days revisit your goal. You may have to adjust your goal. As you take steps, reward yourself and make sure you recognize that each step is a success. Start with a 7 day plan if need be, adjust after those 7 days. Start small and add to it. Be honest with yourself and stick to one goal at a time. Make SMART goals that are achievable and can lead to success. Chart your progress along the way. We all need to see that list of achievements. Small steps lead to success.
When you set goals, you are aiming to change a past behavior. It takes time and it may take a couple failed attempts, but don’t beat yourself up. Ask for support. Know it is ok to fail, and adjust to avoid repeating what made that goal fail.
New Year’s Resolutions are a tradition in which we try to change an undesired trait or behavior, or try to accomplish a personal goal or otherwise improve your life. Why not set resolutions thoughout the year?
Dream it, Believe it, See it, Tell it, Plan it, Work it and lastly Enjoy it!
As a life coach I can help you reach your goals. Together we can remove the road blocks that are keeping you from achieving your goals. We can create your goals with a SMART approach with strategies to make sure you keep your goals in focus. Life coaching is not only about helping with goals, but with your path in life. Are you stuck? Life is full of roadblocks and only you can knock those down. It is ok to have some help along the way. Hell, we all have needed help along the way. I wouldn’t be where I am at today without a life coach that changed my life and mindset.
I have been there. I have set goals and failed. I have reached goals and I have implemented strategies in my experiences that allow me to focus and succeed.
Set up a free 30 minute phone or video coaching session. See if this is for you. Coaching will focus on you. It will STRENGTHEN you. It will give you the strength to make the changes necessary for success no matter your past struggles. Click on my website to schedule your session, or send me an email. See below. www.Beckyshafferliveinconfidence.com
What are your goals? How will you get there? I look forward in hearing from you.
Becky Gentner, Life Coach, Educator, Author
liveinconfidence@gmail.com/ www.Beckyshafferliveinconfidence.com
bshafferliveinconfidence.com 