Regularly, I have discussions with patients who are trying to improve their health for the better. They often come to me stating that they want to lose X amount of pounds or exercise 2-3 days a week. However, many of these same people often have difficulties just getting started. To help them, I ask them to think of 'SMART' health goals. Having goals is great. Especially when it comes to something as important as your health, goals not only help you track your progress but they can also serve as motivation.
So here is an introduction to the 'SMART' method of developing goals;
"S" - SPECIFIC - What are your goals? Let's be as specific as possible. An exampleis,
instead of saying you want to "lose weight", a more specific goal
would be, "I want to lose 15 lbs by December 25, 2009". See the
difference?
"M" - MEASURABLE - Pick a goal that you can measure so you can track your progress.
Another example here would be instead of saying, "I want to quit
smoking", a measurable goal would be, "I will allow myself to
smoke 10 cigarettes this week but next week, I will cut it back
to only 7"
"A" - ACHIEVABLE - This is an important point to think about. Do you stand a chance
of actually achieving your goal? The goal should be challenging
but not down right impossible!
"R" - REALISTIC - Realistic goals are crucial but 'realistic' will depend on the
person. Say you've never run a day in your life, well maybe running
a marathon next year is just asking too much. A more realistic
alternative is running a challenging 10 km run first. Remember,
you can always take on the marathon at a later date.
"T" - TIMELY - Set a time frame for your goal. Having a deadline is crucial for
motivation and success. Instead of saying, " sometime next year", set
a date! January 1, 2010 for example. Now you've got the motivation to
get started today!
Visit the website of your COMMERCIAL DRIVE - EAST VANCOUVER CHIROPRACTOR, DR. DOMINIC CHAN DC
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