Setting personal goals is more than writing them down. Evaluating, re-committing and our individual uniqueness all impact the creation of habits. And our ability to achieve goals.
Setting Personal Goals
With 2018 looming on the horizon. I reflect not only on the current year. But the past several years which have lead me to this stage of my life.
Setting, evaluating and even re-committing to personal goals. January 1st isn’t a magical number. It’s a good place for a fresh start.
But, there’s a Bigger Problem
It only comes around once a year.
Today, is the best time to start, not tomorrow, not next week and definitely not next year.
When I was over 100+ pounds overweight. I felt stuck in a rabbit hole per say for years as the weight returned time and time again.
Conquering the weight is only one issue.
A considerable larger issue is my mindset!
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Ready or Not Here Comes Change.
No matter if change is expected, unexpected, planned or not. Nothing stays the same. It’s been said, “if you are not progressing then you are degressing”.
Automatic subconscious routines are easier to continue. Instead of moving towards change.
Doing nothing gets me nowhere! Change is inevitable. So embrace it!
But the effort to continue the search and application is difficult. To the point where beginning something new, even starting again becomes a huge burden.
So why mess with my automatic routine?
Because doing nothing isn’t an option!
Change Habits, Achieve goals.
Habits aren’t formed in 21 days.
The continued daily pursuit to get a desired outcome. With daily even hourly re-commitment to myself and my goals to form a habits
This last year, I listened to Gretchen Rubin’s book “Better than Before: Mastering the Habits of Our Everyday Lives” on Audible.
To form habits, Gretchen describes several strategies to use. And each of us respond differently to inner and outer expectations. She categorizes the responses into 4 different tendencies. Which are Upholders, Questioners, Obligers, or Rebels.
Depending on our tendency the strategies used will be different for each person. We all have a unique tendency. So what works for one person may not work for another. Especially if you are of a different tendency.
Our response to expectations along with strategies impact the creation of habits. Even breaking bad habits.
Outer expectations has to do with other people. While inner has to do with yourself.
Which of the 4 tendencies are you?
Upholders – “Meets outer and Inner expectations” Habits: Easy to make and keep habits.
Questioners – “Resists outer and Meets Inner expectations” Habits: Need to know the why and that the habit makes sense.
Obligers – “Meets outer and Resists Inner expectations” Habits: Set external accountability to motivate and keeping personal habits.
Rebels – “Resists outer and Inner expectations” Habits: Focus on the enjoyment and freedom the habit brings.
I took the 4 tendencies quiz. But knew ahead of time, I’m an “Obliger”. “Easier to do things for other people than for myself”.
Yep that’s me!
As I put in place these strategies, my approach to forming new habits and achieving goals for 2018 will be different.
Commitment is Key.
As the first few weeks of the new year start to disappear. Goals are often forgotten as the newness and excitement dwindle.
Setting goals, reviewing and re-committing to old forgotten, but worthwhile goals are important.
What’s a goal without commitment? Nothing more than a dream.
Depending on the tendency. Commitment to others as well as the commitment to yourself is important.
In the beginning of my plant-based journey, the transition felt overwhelming.
Not knowing where to start. Not knowing what’s on plan. And definitely not knowing anyone who could answer questions, didn’t help!
Now, that’s why I put together a list of 10 things you need to know before starting a plant-based diet.
Decided daily to commit to the new habit or goal. Focus on daily efforts to gain momentum towards the goal and desired results.
We all have struggles.
My 2018 goals include exercising, return to mindful eating, personal and spiritual growth.
2017 hasn’t come without its struggles.
During this past year, I dealt with arm/muscle pain and numbness. Which limited my ability to work, lift items and use my right (dominant) arm. In the end, I found out I have two herniated discs in my lower neck.
I end this year without pain. But know that it could return anytime.
Due to my setback and not so good reaction to medication, I regained about 15 lb. I didn’t change the foods I ate.
Even though I gained weight back this year, weight-loss isn’t one of my goals.
I have decided to focus on exercise and mindful eating.
One thing I will do is review the list of items I observed when practicing mindful eating some time ago. Along with applying my exercise goals.
I’m happy each day I don’t have arm and neck pain / or numbness.
Personal Reflection – What’s our Why!
I set many personal goals this last year. Some accomplished and some not. But the most important thing is my commitment to moving forward.
I’m enthusiastic while speaking to others about a whole food plant-based diet. And have an overwhelming desire to guide others on their journey.
As an “Obliger” this will keep me accountable. And help me reach my personal goals.
This lifestyle is doable, enjoyable and definitely worth it!
Let’s travel this plant-based journey together and move toward a healthy LIFESTYLE.
By creating habits that last a lifetime.
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Now It’s Your Turn!
What are your goals for 2018?
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