Sunday, September 23, 2012

Do You Have a Goal?

So, do you have a goal in mind with this health and nutrition stuff?  Maybe you want to start eating healthier, or you want to start exercising more.  Sometimes it's hard to get started though!!  That's where a goal comes in handy.  You can write your goal on a piece of paper and post it on your refrigerator, at your desk or on your bathroom mirror to help remind yourself of why you're doing all of this.

As far as fitness is concerned, there are many ways to go about setting a goal.  There are some great programs out there like the C25K- the couch to 5K.  It is a program that slowly gets you running with goals that are attainable and then you work your way up to running a 5K race.  Or, if you know of a 5K (which is 3.1 miles) that is in your area, you can use that as your goal.  Put it on your calendar in permanent marker, so you can't erase it, and start training!!!

Or, maybe you have a reunion coming up that you want to be ready for.  Or a wedding, or your anniversary.  Sometimes, psychologically speaking, when we have a reason or a goal it helps us to get started.  Maybe, you've just received your cholesterol level results or some other test result that needs to be improved.  Use that as the ammunition you need to get yourself moving.  It's really easy to stay on that couch or in bed a little bit longer in the morning instead of going to workout.  How bad do you want it?  And, what is "it"?  I'll tell you what "it" is.  It's feeling better.  It's being healthier.  It's have a healthy heart.  It's having a less stressful feeling to the day.  It's reducing your risk of heart disease, stroke and certain cancers.  It's looking better.  "It's"  a lot of things.  When we feel in a rut with our eating and fitness, it's sometimes really hard to take the first step.  Find someone to hold you accountable or find a friend, or your spouse, to take this journey with you.  And, remember, it's not a short term thing; this is a forever lifestyle change that will increase the longevity of your life.

And, along with setting goals, you can also reward yourself.  I think in America, we have gotten in the habit of rewarding ourselves with food.  Don't do that!!!  Reward yourself with a new pair of workout shoes, or a new pair of jeans when your old ones get too big, etc.  Let's get away from rewarding ourselves with food- we are not dogs!!!

How can I help you reach your goals?  Do you need someone to hold you accountable?  I can be that person- just let me know!!