SMART Health and Wellness Goals

The first month of the new year is almost finished. For many of us, the new year signals a time to set goals. Some of those goals may be health and wellness goals such as increasing fitness or focusing on better nutrition. What is your overall health and wellness goal for 2022? What are your thoughts on setting SMART health and wellness goals?

One of my goals this year is to increase my cycling speed. I have taken the time to set up a training plan; I will measure my speed during winter training rides in my basement using a bike computer; I feel confident that I can achieve my goal by later spring/early summer and that this goal fits in my life. Achieving this goal will help me achieve my overall goal of increased fitness.

Think about setting small, SMART health and wellness goals that will help you achieve success. Setting small goals, tracking them, and achieving them empowers you to achieve more small goals and eventually attain your overall goal. It’s also good to remember that making changes to your lifestyle is a process of small steps over time.

It’s important to be sure to spend time planning, preparing, and setting a SMART goal to achieve long term, sustainable success.

SMART goals:

Setting SMART goals will set you up for success. SMART goals are specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time-bound.

Specific – Think about your goal and be specific about what you want to achieve. What do you want to accomplish? Why is it important to you? What will your new habit be?

Measurable – How will you track your progress? Journaling or using an app is a great way to track your progress. How often will you work on your goal? Measuring your progress is a great way to hold yourself accountable.

Attainable – How possible is it for you to achieve your goal? Be sure to have all the resources needed to achieve your goal. Can you attain this goal in your desired timeframe?

Realistic – Is your goal realistic? Does it fit within your life? Setting small goals are more attainable and will lead to sustainable behavior change and long-term success. Goals can always be adjusted along the way.

Time-bound – When will you begin your new behavior or activity? How long will it take for you to reach your goal?

Remember that you can re-evaluate your goals and make any necessary changes needed to maintain your healthy lifestyle. Sometimes an obstacle may get in the way, but just get back on track and continue focusing on your goal. Focus on the outcome and why that is important to you.

If you are focused on a fitness goal, you will find this article from Healthline on  SMART Fitness Goals Help You Stick with It informative and helpful.

Having a Health Coach who understands the stages of change and setting SMART goals by your side can empower you to reach your goals and achieve sustainable change. A Health Coach will guide you through the steps of behavior change and will encourage and motivate you while you are focused on your goals.

Please reach out here if you would like to work with me to set a SMART goal.