Celebrate the Small Stuff!
Written by: Kim Poole, Community Engagement Manager
When it comes to our health, we've all got a long-term vision and goal that we want to achieve. Whether it be losing 20 pounds, bench pressing 200 pounds, or running a full marathon, this success doesn't happen overnight. Instead, this success is a result of daily habits that add up over time. Holding yourself accountable to reach a long-term goal is much easier when you've made smaller goals that are easily attainable - and when you celebrate them!
What are short-term goals?
Smaller fitness goals, known as short-term goals, can be attained in a small amount of time, ideally 6 months or less, but can be reached in as little as a month or a week. These should be milestones that add up to achieving your ultimate long-term goal; which allows you to see the progress you've made. They may seem insignificant, but over time they add up and can lead to lasting change for the future.
Here are some examples:
- Lose 1.5 pounds per week
- Take a yoga class twice a week for one month
- Work up to being able to do 12 push ups within the next 2 months
- Reduce body fat percentage by 5% in 3 month
So, why should you celebrate the small stuff?
- Taking smaller steps can help us get started
- The small stuff helps us track our progress
- Seeing our successes can increase confidence and motivation
- Consistency will make it easier to reach our long-term goals
Happy goal-setting, and remember to keep them SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time-bound)!