How To Set Health Goals & Stick To Them

Setting health goals, and more importantly sticking to them, can be hard. Many people set lofty objectives for themselves and run out of steam before they can achieve them. 

There are several elements that go into achieving goals. The kind of goals you set for yourself, the timeline, and the method you use to reach them are really big contributors to your ultimate success.

The same guidelines apply for everything from health and wellness like weight loss to business building goals and a successful family life.  Next time you want to set a health goal that you can actually achieve, follow these simple steps:

1.    Be specific
When you set a health goal, choosing something specific is going to make it much easier for you to reach the end results that you want. Instead of saying, “I want to start running,” say, “I want to train for a 10K.” Defining the goal will give you something much more concrete to work towards. Just think how great you'll feel after you run a 10K race instead of running a few times and then giving up.

2.    Be reasonable
If you want to incorporate your goal into your schedule, choose one that fits seamlessly into your life. For example, if you are a mother of three with a full time job, it might not be a good idea to start training for a marathon if you don't have the hours required for training. Instead, choosing a 5K will get you running and feeling great without the major commitment of time that you don't have.
3.    Set action steps
Goals are much easier to reach when you have small victories along the way. If you are following a training plan, it’s easy to schedule in action steps by adding on mileage or exercises each week. If your goal is to start sleeping better, having action steps like disconnecting from technology an hour before bed or going to bed a few minutes earlier each night could help.
4.    Remember your goal
Set daily reminders for yourself to remember your goal. This will remind you why you are working so hard and encourage you to keep going until the goal is met. You could start each day by saying the goal out loud to yourself in the mirror, or set a daily reminder on your phone. Figure out the best way for you to reflect on your goal and do it daily.
5.    Celebrate!
Once you reach your goal, you should feel very proud! Take the time to acknowledge your hard work and give yourself the appreciation that you deserve. 

Do you have any tips for sticking to a health-related goal?

4 Reasons You Should Sign Up For A Race

From a morning jog to completing a marathon, running is a popular sport for a variety of reasons. It’s appealing because besides a good pair of running shoes, you don’t need any fancy equipment or a gym membership.

Runners often claim that running is their “me time,” a way to relieve stress, or even a chance to catch up with friends on a social group run. Of course there are many physical benefits, as well, since a regular exercise regimen keeps your heart healthy, lowers risk of disease, and boosts immunity.

Once you’re comfortable with a basic running routine, you might find yourself interested in participating in a race. While it’s natural to feel intimidated when you’re trying something new, signing up for your first race will give you an exciting boost of self-confidence!

Here are some non-running reasons you should sign up for a race:

There’s no feeling like that of achieving a goal – Race day is about so much more than running a specified distance or having a speedy pace. In fact, many people will choose to walk with friends, or take intermittent walking breaks. Training for a race is a commitment of your time and energy. By race day, you’ll be mentally and physically strong enough to achieve your goal! The sense of accomplishment when crossing the finish line is a reminder that you can achieve anything you set your mind to.

Races create an incredible sense of community – Races are held all over the world from the largest cities to the smallest towns. A quick Google search will help you find a race calendar near you, or check out this race finder from Runner’s World. Meeting new people gives you a sense of community and runners are a friendly crowd – consider all of those released endorphins!

It's a great opportunity to give back – Most races have an entry fee ranging from $10 - $200, depending on the size and location of the race. Choose a race that supports a cause you’re passionate about, and take pride in your donation. If you aren’t up for running a race, there are always opportunities to volunteer with registration, hydration stations, or handing out medals at the finish line.

Races are a lot of fun – The most important part! Many races have live music throughout the course, and fun events with food and beverages afterward. The race environment is a place to embrace your surroundings, smile, and give thanks for your abundant life. Soak it up and remember that you’re part of a greater cause to spread health and happiness!

Have you ever signed up for a race?

Color Run - Find your city!!

My husband and a couple friends of ours are going to be participating in The Color Run on Feb 4th in Austin, TX!  This is the coolest experience and 5k (3mile) run/walk you can do!  They are holding them in several cities around the country in 2012!  Check out the promo video and then hit up their website to find a city nearest you & REGISTER!!!

       THE COLOR RUN

Check out their website and 5k locations all over the country! Register today and have a little fun! :)