The Road to Success. Be Specific!

With resolutions being the topic of the week every year at this time, please consider these most important 2 words…BE SPECIFIC.

It’s not enough to say “I want to lose weight this year.”  You will be much more successful if you set a specific goal and then list the tools you will use to get to that goal.  Much more effective will be saying “This year, I want to lose 15 pounds and I will do it by trying to lose 2 pounds per month until I reach my goal.  I will do this by writing down my calories and keeping them under (fill in the blank).   I will work exercise into my life by going to the gym after work on Mondays and Thursdays.  I will walk 30 minutes a day most other days.  I will limit my “cheats” to one day a week and will decide the day by looking ahead at my calendar.  I will take time on Sundays to prepare healthy, low calorie meals that I can eat during the week.  I will work on getting at least 7 hours of sleep because a good night’s sleep is a great fat burner.  I will remind myself of my goals several times and I will reward myself when I reach small goals along the way.”

This is the stuff that works.  Setting specific goals and scheduling time to do the needed work.  This formula is basically the same for whatever your goals are.  If it is more peace you are looking for in your life, same thing.  Be specific.  Say things like “I will take 10 minutes every day to just sit and be (maybe meditate!).  I will find and then attend a peaceful yoga class at least once a week.  I will wake up a few minutes earlier for work this year, so I don’t have to feel rushed.  I will not make more than (fill in the blank) appointments in a day.  I will eat more slowly and watch my caffeine intake.  I will learn how to take deep breaths instead of getting upset when sitting in traffic.”

You get the point.  Wherever you are, whatever your resolutions or goals are for 2012, get real and get specific.  Setting yourself up for success is always a far better choice than the alternative.  Be specific and get on then get on it.  YOU CAN DO IT!

I’ll be at the gym for Senior Strength Training at 11:30, Cardio Sculpting at 6 and Pilates/yoga at 7.