As we kick off 2017, we know many people are making their New Year’s Resolutions. With the help of Jennie Michalik, Sachs Recreation Center’s Wellness Services Coordinator, we are excited to offer a special program to help you set meaningful goals and achieve them. Below, Jennie offers some helpful advice to get you started, but for a more in-depth look at setting and achieving your 2017 resolutions, register for our New Year’s Wellness Resolutions program on Thursday, January 26 from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. We look forward to seeing you there!
New Year, New You!
It’s the beginning of a new year, which means it’s time to set your New Year’s Resolution! Whether your resolution is to run a 5K in a month, or you want to earn that promotion, setting goals and creating a plan to achieve them is a key habit of successful people. Research shows that if you take the time to sit and write out your goals, you are more likely to achieve them. Take some time today to reflect and write out your goals, and then hang them up where you’ll see them every day, and before you know it you’ll be on your way to success!
Here are some tips on how to set meaningful goals that will help you get to the next level:
Make S.M.A.R.T. Goals
S.M.A.R.T. goals are goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Results-focused, and Time-bound. This will allow you to create a meaningful goal, rather than a vague one, which could be harder to achieve. For example, instead of just saying, “I want to run more,” you could say “I want to run a 5K in two months.”
Consider How You’ll Reach this Goal
Great goals are ones that have several layers to them, and so they’ll require a few steps before you can achieve them. That is why it is also important to list the steps needed to reach that goal. In keeping with the 5K example, you could list a measured running program, signing up for the 5K, and getting a gym membership as steps needed to reaching your goal.
Stay Motivated!
The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. While this saying may be old, it could not be more true. Once you have your goals outlined, hang them up and be proud, you’re already closer to achieving your goal by making a plan! While progress can sometimes plateau, or fall off, keep your eye on the prize. You can also add incentives to your steps, like getting yourself new running shoes once you hit the halfway point in your running program. Remember, YOU CAN DO THIS!
