Monday Motivation: New Year Edition!

First and foremost…HAPPY ReNEW YEAR Fitness Fanatics! I pray you all had a wonderful start to 2011 and that you are blessed beyond measure.

I’ve always LOVED this time of year because people always seem so much more happy. We all seem so grateful to have a new start and we begin to promise ourselves we’re going to be better, do better, love better, and just start over. It’s all so great!

Some of the biggest “resolutions” most people make is to get back in shape, hit the gym more, lose the weight, eat better, tone up or finally get that membership to the gym. And most people hit the ground running come January 1^st. The gyms and fitness clubs become packed to the rafters with folks who’ve committed themselves to taking care of their bodies. But then what happens? Right around late February/ early March (or maybe even earlier) Those folks are gone and the gym is empty again. So…Where do we go wrong?

Well, having been one of those people that goes into a new year so enthusiastic about working out and then dwindling off into “I’ll do it tomorrow” land…I’d say it’s the mistake of making too many lofty goals at one time.

So today’s Monday Motivation is this: When it comes to wanting to make a change that involves your health and your body, make small, detailed goals that are attainable, not just sound good. Then build and execute a plan that will ensure your success.

Big Lofty Goals that may get thrown by the wayside:

• I’m going to lose weight.
• I’m going to tone up.
• I’m going to get my abs back.
• I’m going to become a runner.
• I’m going to eat better.
• I’m not going to eat meat.

(Do these sound familiar?)

Small Detailed Goals that have a better chance at success:

• This week, I’ll hit the gym 3 times.
• Tomorrow, I won’t eat any sweets.
• This month, I’ll try a new workout class.
• I’m going to plan my workouts for this week.
• I’m going to try and lose 8 pounds this month.

(See?…More specific.)

The most important part of going after any goal is executing a strategy behind it. Especially a fitness goal. Just going to the gym isn’t enough. What are you going to DO at the gym? Put together a workout plan and stick to it. Assign a friend or family member as your accountability partner and make them remind you every now and then of what you’ve set out to do. If you don’t meet your small, attainable goal, set a new one and keep going. No pity parties. Plan your meals for the week. Get a menu together and try a new food. It’s all about small, detailed goals and the strategy behind them.

Use this “new year” energy to bring down those lofty goals and renew your mind to get focused on something smaller. 2011 is sure to be one of the most amazing years yet. I can feel it! I’m determined to make Renewed Fitness an even more helpful blog this year that will inspire everyone who reads it to be proactive about being fit. So…stay tuned for more greatness!

Be Renewed!