With 2020 just around the corner, New Year’s resolutions will be springing to mind: but how do you make sure you actually achieve them, and they don’t end up being recycled into next year’s list? Setting a target, planning the execution, and starting the process of achieving your goal should be an exciting process; not something to stress over. Personal trainer and powerlifting champion Daniella Means from Hybrid MMA & Fitness shares her top ways to stay motivated and make sure you stick to those health and fitness goals in 2020.
1. Clearly define what it is you want to achieve, and track it
It’s very easy to say “In 2020, I want to lose weight,” or “I want to improve my fitness” or “I want to get stronger.” A better way to make sure you achieve your goal is to make it quantifiable and measurable.
Instead of, “I want to lose weight,” change this to, “I want to lose X number of kilos.” Instead of, “I want to improve my fitness,” change this to, “I want to be able to run 5km in 30min.” Instead of “I want to get stronger” change this to “I want to be able to deadlift 2x my body weight”.
Write down what your goal is, even if it’s just for yourself to help hold yourself accountable. Be as specific as you can to help keep you focused on this target.
2. Give yourself a realistic time frame with a start and end date
How many times have you told yourself, “I’ll start tomorrow/Monday/next week,” and then before you know it, months have gone by and you never even started? Commit to the start date and then give yourself a realistic deadline for you to get there. Sign up for a race, a competition, or a personal event like a birthday, holiday or anniversary.
See also: New Year New You: The Best Transformational Retreats Around The Globe
3. Put together a plan with an expert
A goal without a plan is just a dream. To keep yourself motivated, enlist the help of an expert in that field: whether it’s a personal trainer or nutritionist, a mentor, or even a friend who’s passionate and knowledgeable about that specific topic.
4. Surround yourself with people who will support your goals
If you’re surrounded by people who party all the time, guess what, you’re going to party all the time. If you are around people that enjoy hiking, are addicted to Brazilian JiuJitsu or weight training… chances are that you’re going to get into it too. Have fun with it, get your friends and family involved and enjoy the process—you never know what amazing things you could achieve.
See also: 9 Effective Luxury Weight Loss Retreats To Help You Achieve Your Goals
5. Break your ‘big goal’ down into ‘little goals.’
If you’re trying to lose 12 kilos in three months, set yourself the target of losing one kilo per week. Setting yourself a short term target like this will help keep you focused—thinking about losing one kilo per week sounds a lot less daunting than 12.
