Introduction
Albert Einstein once said that if you want to live a happier life then tie it to a goal, and not to people or things. For the most part of our lives, the reason why most people wander is because they aren't sure of what they want to do with their lives, and even if they do, they do not know how to get there.
So, perhaps, it is imperative that one enjoys the journey instead of waiting eagerly for the destination whether it is about losing weight or exploring a new profession through study or anything else…
Goal Setting
Goal setting is not so tough, really. Although there's been a lot of talk about how one should set goals, there's no one way to do that but perhaps one widely used goal-setting technique (also known as the SMART goal-setting technique) can be used… but before we explore this one, let's talk about a couple of other things that are important, and touch on the human aspect of reaching a goal.
1. Visualize your goal
Use your imagination to visualize how you want to look.
If you are not so imaginative (but competitive), use a picture of the fittest looking model that you admire to help you better visualize how you want to look, and better still as a 'live' goal for you to work towards. For men, a picture of Ryan Reynolds should be enough… trust me!
2. Be open to any workout style that offers real results
A closed mind is, indeed, a dangerous one. So, one should be open to trying different types of workout programs, as some might work better for you than it might for others. You never know…
3. Measure Progress
Even though we will talk about this in detail when we come to the SMART technique, with every milestone of fitness obtained, your thoughts drastically change from 'Will I ever lose weight?' to the far-more appealing 'It's only a matter of time.' of which the latter is motivating!
4. Moderate your expectations
A tree doesn't grow overnight. It takes time. So all things do take their time. One cannot get six-pack abs in one week… oh please! Almost every person who has reached an enviable level of fitness knows that they've had to 'earn' by busting themselves day in and out over an extended period of time. So you might as well enjoy the 'journey' until you get to your destination rather than trying to hurry it up…
5. Giving up is out of the question, pal!
We all want to give up. Yes, we're human and life is tough. However, the art of winning lies in the ability to persist even though we would like to do otherwise. Thus the saying, winners never quit, and quitters never win…
Take a break… but don't QUIT!
6. Using the SMART Technique
If you really want to achieve a goal, then this method can be virtually used for anything in your life, whether it is to achieve the fitness levels that you've wanted or anything else. Check this link for more information on the SMART technique.
You can find examples of how to use this technique over the internet, so Google away!
In Closing
From a personal standpoint, much like life, one should not be so focused on the goal that one forgets to take in the experience of a new day. Enjoy each workout. Tell yourself that you love yourself, and that's why you are taking time to take care of yourself. Consider it a 'spiritual experience' for your body as it develops and grows slowly everyday. Feel the flow, and enjoy every moment of it… as that is what Life is about!
491 views