ARTICLE - Set goals, not resolutions

It's the beginning of January again and everyone is obsessed with New Year resolutions. I cannot tell you how many press stories I've already seen this year about resolutions and how many people break them (usually by January 2nd).

If you're part of the group of people who are serious about wanting change in your life then you should really think about goal setting rather than setting resolutions.

So what's the difference?

Goal setting is a specific process to define what you want to achieve and then defining a road map of how you're going to get there. The problem with resolutions is that you define the ultimate goal without checking if it's realistic or attainable and when you face a setback you tend to feel like you failed which results in quitting.

Goals have specific elements. They must be realistic, they must have a timeline and they must be specific.

People usually resolve to 'Eat Better' and the reason they want to do that is to lose weight. A much better goal would be to lose 10lbs by April. This goal is realistic (you can lose 10lbs in the next 3 months), it has a timeline (by April, even better set a date) and it's specific ('10lbs by April' and not 'some weight').

Once you have this goal, it's easy to break it down into smaller chunks like losing a pound each week for example. Also by having smaller interim goals you can adjust your program more often as you face setbacks or have success but you don't need to give up.

Probably the most effective way to succeed with your goals is to become more accountable. Tell everyone you know that you are aiming for your goals which will give you an added incentive not to give up and get their support to help you achieve your goals.

Hit The Road Running offers coaching services which can greatly increase your chances of achieving your goals, help you to set them and also provides the accountability and motivation most people need.

Good Luck and Happy New Year.

About The Author

Tony Denford is a certified personal trainer and owner or Hit the Road Running. He has been training primarily runners since 2002 and has worked with beginners all the way to Boston Qualifier Marathon runners.

Tony emphasizes balance and variety in his training methods and always tries to make sure his client’s fitness routines are fun as well as beneficial.

Visit www.hittheroadrunning.com for more details on Hit The Road’s programs and services.