Hi Eleveno,
Goal setting can be tricky. It sounds like you are already getting the idea, making the goals reasonable. Here are some other tips to follow:
Make sure your goals are SMART
Specific- You clearly outline what you want to achieve. For example, "I will clean out the entire office, office closet and desk. Throwing out all old papers and storing items I do not use often."
Measurable - Ensure that you can measure your success. For example, you wouldn't say, "I am going to eat more vegetables" you would say, "I am going to eat at least 5 servings of vegetables today."
Attainable - Pick a goal that is challenging but not totally unattainable. Be reasonable and realistic when setting goals otherwise goals can be counter productive and demoralizing.
Resonant - Ok, many other people working in Health would say that this step is realistic but as a coach we call the R in SMART Resonant. Make sure the goal resonants with you. Does it excite you? Does it motivate you? Are you looking forward to having this goal achieved? Is it challenging enough to make you a tiny bit nervous? It is important to you?
Time Stamped - Make sure that you put a deadline on the goal. When do you have to complete the goal? For example, "I will have the office cleaned by Feb. 10th." Adding deadlines is important and good for fighting off procrastination.
Including all these elements to your goal will make the goal more motivating and likely more easy to reach.
How would you tweek your current goal? Or what are some new goals you would come up with considering the above?
Ashley, Health Educator
