Why Goal Setting is So Important… Hello 2017

We all could use some self-improvement or a dose of niceness toward others? Then why do most New Year’s resolutions go by the wayside after only a few weeks? Statistically speaking only 8 percent of people that make resolutions actually keep them for an extended period of time. What is the problem? Perhaps I can shed some light on steps you can take to make your New Year’s resolution a reality. I will be mainly focusing on physical wellness goals but these suggestions can apply to other dimensions of your life.

First and foremost, set goals! If you don’t know where you want to end up with your New Year’s resolutions then how will you know if you have arrived? Goals are as unique as we are, your own personal goals do not have to look like anyone else’s goals. It’s imperative to write down goals and track your progress against your written words. The process of taking the time to write down your goals means that you are serious about the process. Goals are like road maps, to help guide us to where we want to land.

I have been reading a good book called “The Circle Maker” by Mark Batterson. I have especially enjoyed Batterson’s chapter on goal set-ting. He mentioned that at the base of the brain stem lies a cluster of nerve cells called the reticular activating system (RAS). We are con-stantly bombarded by stimuli vying for our attention, and it is the job of the RAS to determine what gets noticed and what goes unnoticed. Like a radar system, our RAS determines what gets noticed. He also mentions this is why goal-setting is so important. It actually creates a category in your RAS, and you start noticing anything and everything that is rel-evant to help you accomplish your goals.

Another trick is called setting SMART goals. SMART goals are as fol-lows:

» Specific goals: Losing weight is not a specific goal. You must attach it to a number on the scales that you wish to attain in a certain timeframe. If you are too general with your goals, they will never be-come a reality. Have specific outcomes in mind.

» Measurable Goals: Any business minded individual will tell you that you have to be able to measure progress (or lack of) from new systems that are being implemented. For example, if you want to run a mile in 10 minutes, that is very measurable and specific.

» Attainable: Do not set yourself up for failure. Set goals that you are 95% sure you can accomplish. Factor in the time you spend with your spouse, children, work, and other activities.

» Realistic Goals: Make your goals realistic. Set short-term goals that will help you achieve your longer term goals. If you only have 30 minutes per day to dedicate to your fitness program then set your goals accordingly. Spending 2 hours per day at the gym is not realistic for most people and not necessary unless you are an athletic training for a specific event.

» Time Bound: Anchor your goals with a timeframe. Typically we all work better and accomplish things if we are bound to a timeframe. This cements it in your mind and the brain accepts it as something that is im-portant.

The process of setting goals is a lifelong process because once you meet your goals it is time to set new ones. Just maintaining the progress that you have made is certainly a goal to be desired as well. Here’s to 2017 and another opportunity to achieve the goals that will hopefully make us healthier and more productive individuals.

See you in the gym!!