Goal setting is important, but we don’t often realize how important they are as we age and continue to navigate through life. Goal setting helps us take ownership and responsibility for our lives. They force us to set priorities and help make us aware of our strengths and our weaknesses. Accomplishing a goal will give a significant boost to our self esteem and allows us to fall back on those victories when we hit a rough patch in life.
To set a walking or running goal, one of my favorite tools is the SMART method. This method or technique will ensure that your goal is specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-based. Let’s dig in.
The first step in SMART goal setting is to get very specific about it. A specific goal clearly answer these five W questions: What do you want to accomplish? Why is it important? Who is involved? Where will you’ll do it? When are you going to do it? For example, a vague goal would be to start walking more for improved health. A more specific goal would be I’m going to join a walking program and why it’s important to you. Then decide where and when it’s going to take place including as many details as possible. I highly recommend writing it out and keeping it where you can see it.
Secondly, it’s important to be able to measure your goal so that there is evidence that you have accomplished it. This is where you’ll ask questions such as How much? How many? How will I know when It’s accomplished? You’ll need to figure out how best to measure your progress. You could time yourself or sign up for a 5K walk/run. Tracking progress helps one stay more focused and motivated as we get closer to achieving our goals.
Your goal also needs to be realistic and achievable in order to ensure success. It should stretch your current abilities but still remain possible. If you set a goal that is too lofty you are quite possibly setting yourself up for failure. Instead, consider a goal that is challenging but not impossible. An achievable goal will have a clear path to accomplishment.
It’s also important to choose a goal that is relevant. Something that is right for you where you currently are. Not one for where you’ve been, not one for your friend and not one for where you hope to be in the future. Select a goal that is relevant to you in the here and now. A relevant goal help you live more in the present and will allow you to enjoy present activities and current experiences.
Lastly, goals should be time-based. Time doesn’t necessarily mean performance but could also include your target date or deadline to complete your goal. Having a deadline helps prevent everyday tasks from taking priority over your long-term goals. Research shows that a time sensitive goal will help you maintain momentum.
No matter where you are in your walking or running journey, goals are a very important part and identifying them will help motivate you to take action. Email jojo@coastalraceproductions.com to share your SMART goal and let’s keep moving forward together!
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