Change is Achievable! The Power is Within You!
Goal Setting and Understanding Your Why
The first aspect of committing to a healthier lifestyle is establishing the goal. Start with a relatively simple goal that you know you can achieve. However, the goal needs to be S.M.A.R.T. (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound). An example of an achievable SMART goal is making it to the gym for thirty minutes thrice weekly for two months. Once we have that simple SMART goal made, it becomes non-negotiable. Everything else will work around your obligation to meet your goal; no ifs or buts exist. Now that we have our goal set, we must understand why we established that goal. For example, I want to feel more confident in myself and take my shirt off at the pool, or I want to run around with my grandchildren outside on a summer day. Your reasoning is essential to meet your goal week after week. Now, I want you to write down your goal and your reason why on a piece of paper. Take that paper and tape it to the refrigerator, your bathroom mirror, or on the front door. All that matters is that the goal is seen day after day.
Our Reason Why and Discipline
Whenever you want to say no to your obligation, I want you to tell yourself why. Why did you set your goal? If your reason to start was strong enough in the first place, your mind will not let you fail yourself. Now, I would like to present my definition of discipline. Discipline is doing the hard work day in and day out when no one is watching, and no praise is given, even when you do not want to do the work. I want you to stand up and think, I am proud of myself. I can do what I set out to do. Nothing is going to stop you. At first, this powerful self-talk will seem awkward. However, it becomes routine and a part of who you are after a while. You are a king or a queen; START acting like it.
Celebrate the Achievements
Celebrating your achievements and change is as vital as being disciplined and following your goal. When that time-bound measure for your specific goal has been reached, it is time to celebrate. We are going to celebrate your discipline, your drive, and your persistence. We are going to celebrate with a reward. A reward can be a cheat meal, a pair of shoes, a night of bowling, or anything else that brings you joy. However, there is no choice not to celebrate, regardless of how big or small the reward is.
Rinse and Repeat
This process will repeat a couple of times with goal setting and establishing why. The goals and why may change, and reevaluating is always okay. However, after a few of these goals have been made, you can look back and see how much you have changed. You will begin to have a whole different mindset. You no longer have to write down your goals and establish why. Now you are a disciplined man or woman who will be the best they can be. Now that you are a changed man or woman, I want you to go out and conquer the world. Make what you want to happen in life, whether in relationships, careers, fitness, spirituality, or more. No one is going to stop you or get in your way.
