We all have vices or even general day-to-day tasks that we would like to improve, and there’s no better time to embark on a challenge than the new year! Sure, by this point most of us have vocalized something we are going to do a little better for 2011, but I’m willing to bet that those of us actually mapping out our strategies are far and few between. So, in light of the new year, new beginnings and the motivation to succeed in the air, here are a few tips to help you reach your goals.
-The EnterTrainer
Step 1) Convince yourself that you are worth it. Your motivation for change may be someone or something else, but that does not mean that you do not deserve the betterment. You have to be willing and accepting to change for yourself. If you aren’t, this is never going to work.
Step 2) Find your inner passion. Now that you have decided that you are ready to embark on this great adventure, you should be pumped up and ready to go! Take a short video of yourself, or write yourself a letter while you are on the high. Explain your motivation for change and express your excitement for the outcome. During the tough days, watch the video or pull the letter out. There is no better medicine than self motivation!
Step 3) Make a list of everything you want to achieve, and set smaller goals within your large goal. BE SPECIFIC. Sure, you might have a general goal such as weight loss, but think of the smaller feats you want to tackle and list them. For example: Lose weight: lose 20 pounds before my friend’s wedding, fit into my favorite black dress by this summer, etc ... (Make sure you set dates for your small goals and put them on a calendar as a visual reminder.)
Step 4) Track your success. Set benchmarks and know your starting point so you can effectively track your improvement along the way. Yes, this may require some tough self acceptance, but the process is crucial to your inner motivation along the way. It will help you to set and achieve your smaller goals which will help you to successfully achieve the big one.
Step 5) Develop a support system. Be it family, friends or a counselor, find someone to share your goals with. There are going to be times when you need a little lift, and those who love and care about you are the best sources for encouragement.
Step 6) Reward yourself. When you reach a smaller goal, do more than pat yourself on the back. Establish a reward for yourself ahead of time so you are motivated to obtain the reward.
Always reach for the stars guys. I guarantee that you are capable of a lot more than you think you are! Don’t be intimidated by the big task at hand, instead, take it one day at a time and reach for one smaller goal at a time. Before you know it, you’ll be crossing the finish line.
Best of luck, and as always, “Never let your good enough be good enough.”
-The EnterTrainer
