24 Aug 2024 · Exercise
How to Set and Achieve Your Health Goals: The Ultimate Guide to Staying Motivated
How many times have you set goals only to lose motivation along the way? We’ve all been there! But don’t worry—with the right mindset and tools, you can stay motivated and on track.
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As the saying goes:
“Confidence is gained when competence is gained.”
~ Anon
When you have a clear plan and understand what you’re doing, your confidence grows, making it easier to stick with your goals. The key? Choose something you want to achieve, keep it simple, celebrate small wins, and find a way to stay active that feels right for you.
A Fresh Approach: SMART Goals
At Mobile Rehab, we recommend structuring your health goals using the SMART goal method. This straightforward framework helps keep you motivated and focused, making your goals more achievable.
SMART stands for:
- Specific
- Measurable
- Achievable
- Relevant
- Timely
How to Write SMART Health Goals
- Specific –
Choose a goal that you genuinely want to accomplish. For example:
- Lift your grandchild to put the star on the Christmas tree
- Walk your daughter down the aisle at her wedding
- Create your own vegetable garden
- Walk to the shops and back without getting out of breath
- Play a full round of golf without using a cart
- Measurable – Set a way to track your progress—whether it’s time, distance, steps, or even the number of veggies grown. Being able to measure your success allows you to celebrate the small victories along the way!
- Achievable – Start small and work your way up. Include some easy wins to keep yourself motivated. For example, if you want to improve your mobility, begin with a simple goal like moving your coffee cup from your lap to the table.
- Relevant – Pick a goal that reflects your personal interests. If you’re not a fan of running, don’t force yourself to do it! Your goals should align with what you enjoy, not what others think you should do. When you’re passionate about the goal, you’re far more likely to achieve it.
- Timely – Set yourself a realistic deadline. Whether it’s a few weeks or months, having a timeframe keeps you accountable. Just remember—don’t rush. Good things take time!
Keep Your Goals in Sight
Once you’ve set your SMART goals, share them with your family and friends! Sharing your plans not only holds you accountable but also gives you a built-in support system. Write your goals down and post them somewhere you’ll see every day—like your fridge. Every glance will remind you of the progress you’re making.
Need Help? We’ve Got You Covered!
If you hit a bump in the road, Mobile Rehab is here to help. Download our FREE SMART goal template to get started, and remember—we’re only a call or email away.
