Tips for Fall Goal Setting
Coming off of the high of the summer, fall is a great time to set some goals before the winter blues settle in. Weather is changing and eventually it will become less appealing to be outside. Although bittersweet, it allows us more free-time to refocus and get realigned with our goals! I find that this is a great time to get cozy with a notebook and get some plans and ideas on paper in preparation for the year coming to an end.
When sitting down for a goal planning session, I like to physically write down my goals, so that I get the sweet satisfaction of crossing things off the list when I complete them. Even better, using a chalkboard, whiteboard, or an arrangement of sticky notes on the wall, you can make sure that the most important goals are visible to you every day. Not only is it important to create goals that push ourselves to grow, how we create those goals is equally as important. With that in mind, I’ve put together a few tips on how to effectively set goals for yourself so that you set yourself up for success in attaining them!
Tips for Effectively Goal Setting
- Set reasonable goals and don’t be afraid to start slow! When we set lofty and unreasonable goals, they are less likely to be sustainable in the long run. When we take smaller steps to achieve our overall goal, it feels like a much easier transition into making those new changes. For example, if your goal is to save money, starting with 5% of your income rather than an amount that would create strain on lifestyle will be a more sustainable and reasonable start.
- Set attainable goals and check-in with yourself often about them – If your goals are too ambitious, and you’re not capable of easily meeting them, it can derail the whole program. Set goals that you can easily achieve to set yourself up for success. For example, if your goal is to exercise more, start with 30 minutes, 2 times per week. If you can go above and beyond that some weeks, even better. This is where the check-in is important, it offers the opportunity to adjust the goals based on what is actually attainable!
- Set specific goals. When we set very specific and tangible goals instead of general ones, it is much easier to track when those goals are achieved. For example, if you want to improve your diet, your goal might be to have a handful of greens with each meal rather than just having a goal to eat healthy.
With creating goals for yourself, it is important to know that your goals can change over time, so revisit them often and adjust accordingly. If you need help setting your health goals, booking an initial Naturopathic consultation is a great way to clarify and define your goals, as well as get help with staying on track. In this appointment, we have the time to review any current concerns, your health history and kickstart your plan for better health and wellness. Let me hold you accountable to your highest self!
Call (604) 974-8999 or email [email protected] today to make your appointment.
