We all have fitness dreams:
- “I want to squat a 60 lb dumbbell.”
- “I want to run a mile.”
- “I want to do a Tough Mudder.”
- “I want to eat at home more often.”
Wants are fantastic. They allow your imagination to soar and give you motivation to start. But without a plan, they stay just that – wants.
Turning a want into an actionable goal is the key to long-term success. Wants without a plan are like daydreams, but wants with a plan? That’s when the magic happens. Here’s how to turn your fitness wants into achievable goals.
Step 1: Identify Your Wants
The first step in turning a want into a goal is clearly identifying it. Whether it’s in fitness, nutrition, or any other part of life, decide what you want. Do you want to build strength, run a race, or eat healthier meals? Once you know, you’re ready for the next step.
Step 2: Set a Timeline
Ask yourself: is this a short-term, long-term, or longer-term goal? Knowing the timeline helps you create smaller, achievable milestones. For example, if you want to run a 5K, that could be a short-term goal. Losing 20 pounds might be a longer-term goal that requires multiple steps.
Step 3: Break Down the Goal
Let’s use the example of losing 20 pounds, a common fitness goal. This longer-term goal can be broken into smaller, more manageable milestones:
- Goal 1: Start working out.
- Goal 2: Become consistent with workouts.
- Goal 3: Improve your nutrition.
- Goal 4: Lose the first 10 pounds.
- Goal 5: Refine your diet and increase cardio to lose the remaining 10 pounds.
Each of these milestones brings you closer to your ultimate goal. Now it’s time to add actionable steps.
Step 4: Add Actionable Steps
Breaking down each milestone into daily or weekly actions makes the journey feel manageable. Let’s look at Goal 1: Start working out. Here’s how it could be broken down into actionable steps:
- Daily Action 1: Research gyms in your area.
- Daily Action 2: Call and set up consultations.
- Daily Action 3: Visit gyms for a tour.
- Daily Action 4: Pick your gym (Flexx Personal Training, if you need a suggestion!)
Simple, right? Suddenly, a big goal doesn’t seem so intimidating. You now have a clear roadmap to follow.
Step 5: Stay Consistent and Track Progress
Once you’ve broken down each goal and outlined actionable steps, the most important part is consistency. By regularly checking off small tasks, you make continuous progress toward your bigger goals.
Remember: Goals Without a Plan are Just Dreams
With a clear action plan, those fitness “wants” quickly become achievable goals. The process might be slow, but it’s steady – and that’s the key to long-term success. So, pick your goal, work backward to create your plan, and take it one step at a time.
With dedication and consistency, those fitness dreams will become your reality!
BY TYLER BOLGER