Setting Holistic & Realistic Goals
What would life be if we didn’t have goals and dreams? At some point in life, we decide to achieve something and set the plan in motion to get there. The challenge is maintaining our goal once we have achieved it. It is one thing to lose 15kgs, but can you keep it off? We can begin to set aside time for ourselves and manage that for a few weeks, but at what point do we slip back into old habits.
Setting yourself holistic and realistic goals can ensure that your changes and improvements have longevity and sustainability.
When setting holistic goals, it is very important to consider the benefits to both your physical and mental health so as to achieve a healthy balance that you are able to maintain.
Consider your goals like pyramids.
At the very top of your pyramid is your holistic goal.
Under that holistic goal, are a series of smaller goals that will set you on the right path to achieve the ultimate result. A holistic goal would be “I want to be stronger, fitter and healthier. I will achieve this by taking time to do something I love, following a nutrition plan and signing up to workout with Body20 twice a week”.
Being specific and breaking those specifics up into manageable chunks will help you to not feel overwhelmed, whilst establishing a routine and essentially working towards (and achieving) the ultimate goal.
Ask the questions.
Ask yourself the questions about your goal and then answer them realistically. This exercise will help you understand the meanings of your goals, creating a firm vision using the law of attraction.
What do I want to achieve?
When do I want to achieve it?
Why do I want to achieve it?
How do I want to achieve it?
Using a journal or talking to a Wellness Coach will help you to clearly determine your goals. It is absolutely imperative to consider your mental well-being as well as your physical and in each set of goals and work on marrying the two together. Does your fitness goal make allowances for resting your mind or training your brain? Have you been realistic with your timelines?
Be S.M.A.R.T
Dr Scott Isaacs of the Atlanta Endocrine Associates encourages the use of the S.M.A.R.T method when setting realistic goals.
When preparing your goals be:
Specific – Choose a specific area of focus.
Measurable – Avoid being vague and ensure you can measure your progress.
Achievable – it is ok to dream big, but make sure your goal is actually obtainable.
Relevant – make sure your smaller goals are relevant to the bigger picture and relevant to improving your life.
Timely – be patient, but reasonable. You need to hold yourself accountable so set realistic timelines.
Be sure not to pressure yourself. Slow and steady always wins the race and consistency is key. Make the plan, set the goal, place the boundaries and make a little progress each day. The bigger picture will eventually become clear.
Mental and physical health and wellness is not about the final destination. It’s about the journey along the way. Don’t only exercise your muscles, but exercise patience with yourself as well.
Body20 Members have access to a holistic approach to health and fitness when signing up. Consult with the Nutrition Dr, meet with a Wellness Coach and be trained by our expert Body20 Coaches. By working as a team, we ensure you meet and maintain your goals. Contact your nearest studio to book a demo.
