by Arwa Jundi
“Setting goals is the first step in turning the invisible into the visible.” – Tony Robbins
Ringing in the New Year is usually filled with goals and changes, but how many of us really take the time to set realistic goals. Do we set them, and then by February forget about them?
I find that writing things down, having a thought out plan of reaching goals, usually results in success.
Goal setting is a way for us to focus our efforts on a long term vision, which results in increased motivation, learned persistence and confidence. It’s important to set logical attainable goals so that you are in the best position for success. Set specific, relevant, measurable goals so that you can see visual growth/success.
As an athlete, there are many tangible ways to set goals. One method is to sign up for a few races throughout the year. This way you have things to look forward to all year long. Another great way is to get different friends and family members to join/train with you for these events.
Here are a few reasons why setting goals helps:
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Goals create discipline.
Begin by setting a plan. Write your monthly, weekly and quarterly goals down. This will give you a visual of success. No one wakes up one day and suddenly goes out and runs 26 miles. Start with baby steps with a goal, a plan, or a daily practice.
If you are new to running or just need a goal here’s a great way to get on track this new year. Join the RUN SLC Race Series – you get to run a 5K, 10K and 15K all in the first quarter of the year and by the time the Salt Lake City Marathon or Half comes around your are already trained.
Register for RUN SLC – your commitment starts here!
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Goals strengthen your willpower
We don’t always have the willpower to motivate ourselves or the ability to make the healthy choice. However, creating good habits and strengthening our discipline will get us through the process, especially in times of stress or lack of motivation
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Goals keep you in the present moment not in the past or future.
How many of us “used to” run marathons, “used to be athletes” or “someday will be able to…” Our lives are completely in this moment. Your joy, sadness, or pain is in the now; it is contingent upon what we have been doing, and what we are willing to do today. When you find yourself drifting in the past or future, come back to your goal today because that is what matters, who you are in this moment.
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Goals have deadline and not an attitude of “someday I’ll run a marathon or someday I’ll start running”.
Go out and set your deadline. Whatever your goals may be, write it down or sign up. Do whatever it takes to visualize that deadline.
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Goals are a great measurement for your hard work.
A great way to keep track of what’s working in your training and what isn’t is to keep a journal. This way you can look back and see how far you have come in your training and also modify goals if needed.