setgoals2014After a very long and topsy turvy 364 days; the most exciting day of the year has arrived! It’s the first day of the New Year, the perfect time to make a list, check it twice and set out on a journey to transform our lives into what we dream of. But how do most people prepare for this journey? Well, traditionally it’s through resolutions. Lots and lots of resolutions, which statistically speaking fail (~88%); and miserably at that…So what is it about resolutions that can set you up for failure from the start? I believe that we tend to lose sight of the intended purpose of resolutions and how it relates to our goals, which require setting, planning and commitment.

A Resolution by definition is the act of finding an answer or solution to a conflict or problem. This establishes that we have a problem (such as to lose weight, stop drinking coffee, work less) and need to solve that problem. So how do we do that? By setting a goal of course.

Okay, I know it’s rather simple and a no-brainer to “set a goal”, but do you really know how to set a goal? It is easy to say “I want to lose 15 pounds”, but what are the steps you are going to need in order to get there. That requires more goals; incremental and specific. Once you’ve set your goals you now need to plan. Yes, schedule. Get it on your calendar. How are you going to go about losing those 15 pounds? Hire a personal trainer, join a yoga studio? This is where specificity comes in, so take the time to really think about what’s feasible and what is not. Lastly, you need to make a commitment. Make a commitment to yourself, because you deserve it and having a knowing that you will reach your goals will keep your spirit, energy and focus up.

 

Every New Year women all over the world set resolutions to better their health and fitness. If you are one of those women, don’t forget the importance of setting concrete goals. And don’t forget that the best way to achieve them is to be as prepared as possible. Set, Plan, Commit!

Happy New Year!

Kenya Moses, Founder, Be A Fit Mama