Did you know that you’re either good or bad? Always right or always wrong? A big success or a total failure?
It’s true! If, that is, you subscribe to the common but dangerous “all or nothing” attitude that too many people take with diet and exercise.
And just like things aren’t always so simple in life, neither are they when it comes to building healthy habits.
Especially if you’re considering new goals for the new year, or the dreaded “resolutions,” remember to focus on making progress, not achieving perfection, when pursuing goals.
That means accepting that some days will be great, some will be disappointing, and the vast majority will be somewhere in the middle.
The secret is to persevere consistently and not fall into a funk when you don’t hit a home run every time you’re at bat.
Even Babe Ruth didn’t do that!
Try to hit your goals most of the time. A lot of people like an 80/20 approach, meaning they aim to hit their marks eight out of ten times, and don’t get too worried if they fall short the other two.
This is a more reasoned approach than “all or nothing,” which dooms you to failure anytime you’re not perfect.
You won’t blow your diet or erase your workout gains by slipping here and there. And too much “grind it out” intensity can be damaging physically and psychologically.
So, embrace your fallibility and focus on consistent, steady effort – which always leads to the most lasting and healthy results.
More Tips to Reach Goals
- Set SMART goals
SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound. Instead of saying, “I will train like an Olympian every day,” say, “I’m going to the gym three times a week for at least 30 minutes through January.”
- Start small
Avoid statements like, “I’m going to lose 20 pounds this month,” and set more realistic expectations.
- Celebrate little victories
Did you hit your workout goal for the week? Treat yourself to a fancy coffee. Dropped that first pound? Give yourself a high-five in the mirror.
- Remember your ‘why’
Let’s admit it: There will be days when you don’t feel like exercising. Just remember WHY you started in the first place.
- Workout with your partner or a friend
Working out with a pal makes it way more fun. A trainer and a small group can serve the same purpose.
- Tie habits together
Here’s another gem from “Atomic Habits” – link your new habit to one you already do. Let’s say you want to start each morning with 5 minutes of meditation. Do this RIGHT AFTER you brush your teeth or walk the dog. Makes it super easy.
- Choose fun
If exercise feels like a drag, you’re less likely to do it. Choose something that’s fun for you, no explanation or apology to anyone.
We’re here to help when you’re ready, so call any time.
Holly Kouvo is a personal trainer, functional aging specialist, senior fitness specialist, brain health trainer, writer, and speaker.