I know I can make a list of all the reasons why I SHOULD make healthy eating and exercise part of my daily routine. The key to that is setting goals. In the past, my plans always failed because I was not setting good goals for success. My goal would always be “Lose 30 pounds” or “start exercising.” Because these goals were vague and HUGE, I would fizzle out because the results were not happening fast enough.
So, now I am setting SMART goals:
S – Specific – knowing what I have to do daily to reach my goals.
I know that I need to limit my eating to 1,700 calories per day.
I know that I have to burn 400-500 calories per day through exercise.
I know that I need to stop drinking pop/soda.
I know that I need to start drinking more water.
I will exercise 45-60 minutes 6 days each week.
During September 2009, I will commit to doing Jillian Michael’s 30-Day Shred each day.
I know that I have to track my eating and my activity to make this work.
M – Measurable – do I want to lose 10 pounds, or increase muscle strength by 5%?
I want to lost 40 pounds, but I plan on taking it 5 pounds at a time, until I feel good about my weight. I might decide 20 pounds is just right!
A – Achievable – it’s MY goal, so I have to be able to achieve it.
I believe I can achieve this!
R – Realistic – my goal should make me push myself, but it should also be attainable.
I will break up this 40-pound goal into 8 smaller 5-pound goals. I will give myself one month for each 5 pounds.
T – Time Frame – I need to have a specific start and end date.
My official start date will be September 1st, 2009. My goal is to lose 5 pounds per month, with an ending date of April 30, 2010.
What are your SMART goals?
