Focus On You > 5 Ways to Win Your Goals

Focus on You

5 Ways to Win Your Goals

By Becky Allen

It’s the New Year, and many of us have new goals. It’s easy to be motivated with the turn of a new calendar year and the momentum of a fresh start. But how do you really make a change? What do you do when the feeling fades? I believe these 5 “P’s” can make or break any goal.

1. You need a PLAN.
   We all want to reach a new destination, but how can we get to a place we’ve never been before? We need a map, a plan, to reach our destination. If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. Once our goals are defined, we need to break them down into smaller, bite-sized goals. Want to lose 50 pounds this year? That number may seem overwhelming. However, 50 pounds broken down over a year is just one pound per week! You can do that! You just need a plan. Start small, make consistent changes over time, and you’ll be much more likely to reach your larger goals.
2. You need a PURPOSE.
   Why is your goal important to you? Losing 50 pounds is a great goal, but why does it matter? Maybe you want to lose 50 pounds before vacation? Do you want more energy and to live longer and create more memories? What’s the purpose behind the progression?
   
   Think about what your life will look like when you accomplish this goal. See it. Feel it. Make it so real that your actions align with your new reality. When you know the why, the how is simple. It’s hard to get excited about meal prepping or working out, but feeling confident in shorts or running a 5K is what keeps you committed and moving toward your goal.
3. You need a proper PERSPECTIVE.
   There will never be a perfect time to start. We’re all facing obstacles in this season of life. Perhaps you just moved, started a new job, or have an injury to work around. Maybe you’re dealing with grief, or stress, or feeling like you’re living in chaos. We’ll always have limitations, but we’ll always have ways that we can win, too. In this season of life, what does it look like for you to “win the day?” What can you do today? How can you move your body? Fuel your mind? Make great food choices?
   
   Big goals are important, but we can’t get there without daily, consistent wins. Focus on what you can do, what you can control, and work toward your goal 24 hours at a time.
4. You need to PRAISE your progress.
   Celebrate yourself and your accomplishments along the way! The becoming is in the journey. Enjoy what you’re learning, how you’re growing, and who you’re becoming in the process.
   
   Why should we celebrate losing a pound, completing a workout, or running a mile? Not because it’s a major accomplishment but because you’re proving you can successfully change your habits. Celebrating reinforces good behavior and develops an addiction to progress. The big, life-changing achievements will come as a result of your daily actions. Applaud your small victories as you win each day.
5. You need PEOPLE.
   What’s the number one reason people fail to achieve their goals? Lack of accountability from a community. Do you have positive, like-minded people in your life? Are the people in your inner circle pursuing similar goals? Who do you know who has achieved what you currently desire? These are the folks you need in your life. Spend time with people who support and encourage you, those who truly care for you and want to see you win. You can do it!