Set Realistic Goals
Learning to set realistic goals is a process. Realistic goals challenge you to some extent, but are realistic given your current time, abilities and resources. Setting realistic goals can help set you up for success.
Many people want to set high, lofty goals from the get-go. While it may feel inspiring to set really lofty ambitions, setting goals that don’t reflect your current abilities, time or resources can actually set you up for failure rather than success. While we can always have long term goals and visions that push us forward, we want to make sure our goals are actually realistic. Setting realistic goals can help increase your chances of success and fuel positive feelings that will set us up for positive momentum. Without further ado, let’s discuss some tips to setting realistic goals that can help you increase the chances of success.
As I wrote in my last article about SMART goals, goal setting expert Jon Acuff found that helping people set more realistic–rather than more lofty–goals increased their chances of positive progress and success.
Reflect on your abilities and limitations
Consider your current skills, strengths, and resources. Take into account any limitations or constraints that may affect your ability to achieve certain goals.
What goals would be challenging, but doable considering your current skill level, time and limitations?
Prioritize your goals
Determine which goals are most important and relevant to your overall objectives. Focus on those that align with your values and have the potential to create the most impact or bring you the most satisfaction.
Your goals should feel important to you, not your parents, friends or society.
Break down your goals
Instead of setting one big, overwhelming goal, break it down into smaller, more manageable tasks or milestones. This helps you track your progress and maintain motivation along the way. You can set long term goals, and then set some medium and short term goals that will help you stay on track for your larger goals.
Those smaller checkpoints can help you make sure you stay committed to your goal and keep progressing in a positive direction.
Consider your time and commitments
Assess your schedule and commitments to ensure that your goals are realistic within the available time frame. Set aside dedicated time for working towards your goals and make sure it fits within your other responsibilities.
If you currently have a ton of other responsibilities, setting aside one hour per day to work on your goal might not be realistic. But you may be able to find 10 minutes daily to work on your goal. Those ten minute breaks might not seem like much, but over time you can really chip away at your goals this way!
Be specific and measurable
Clearly define your goals so that you can measure your progress. This allows you to stay on track and make adjustments if needed. Set clear criteria or indicators to determine when you have achieved your goal.
Using fitness apps, trackers or posters can help you visually track your progress towards your goal. These visual reminders can help you stay motivated and committed towards the process.
Seek feedback and advice
Talk to others who have experience or expertise in the area you are setting goals in. They can provide valuable insights and help you set realistic expectations.
This may be a coach, colleague or other person who has done what you want to achieve. Talking to these people regularly can help you avoid roadblocks on your journey.
Stay flexible
Be open to adapting or adjusting your goals as circumstances change. It’s important to be flexible and willing to modify your goals if necessary, while still keeping them realistic and achievable.
The important thing is to keep going towards your goal, even if you experience some roadblocks along the way. Even if you have to change your approach or goal setting timeline, staying flexible can help you make course corrections without giving up. Stay committed to your goal, but flexible with your stategy!
Celebrate small victories
Recognize and celebrate your progress along the way. This keeps you motivated and helps you maintain a positive mindset as you work towards your larger goals.
Celebrating the small victories can help fuel your momentum and help you track your progress towards your big goal.
Final Thoughts
Remember, setting realistic goals is about striking a balance between challenging yourself and ensuring that your goals are attainable given your current circumstances.
Setting realistic goals and following the steps we discussed in this article can go a long way towards helping you achieve your short, medium and long term fitness goals!
