MOTIVATION... one of the things everyone wishes they had more of.
Making and setting goals can help with when motivation is lacking because the achievement of that goal will help you press forward on days you just don't feel like working out.
Some people choose to set a weight goal: to lose a certain number of pounds or inches or to fit into a dress for a wedding, but once that time comes, they go back to old ways. Some women like to set physical goals, like running a 5k, 10k, marathon or triathlon. Working towards a challenge like that will force you to train and the feeling of accomplishment afterward is worth all the training.
Whatever your fitness goals are, its important to make sure they are "real" goals, rather than a "wish" or a hope. The SMART acronym is used for goals setting and can help get you back on the right track:
Specific- A general statement like "I want to get in shape" is not a sufficient goal. However, "I want to fun a 5k in 30 mins." IS specific. Pin-point what you want and write it down
Measurable- How will your goals be measured? Is it in number of pounds? Minutes? Inches? There should be a baseline and a way to know if your goal has been accomplished
Attainable- Do you have the traits, ability, and attitude to reach your goal? Your goal can be a stretch, but should be something that you know you have the ability to do.
Realistic- Losing 50 lbs. may be a realistic goal. Losing 50 lbs in ten days, however, is not. Make sure the goal is in a realistic time frame and scope
Timely- give yourself enough time to reach your goal, but also set a deadline, so there is pressure to work on it. "someday" is not timely.
The difference between successful people and failures, are the successful people know how to set and acheive their goals. Write them down, place it on a card where you will see it everyday, and take baby steps towards your goals. The feelings of accomplishment will do wonders for your self-esteem and your body.
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