I love this definition of goal. Most of us fail in reaching goals because we do not lay out a plan of action or stick to it.
Here are my goals as well as my plan of action.
Long-term goals
- Lose 50 lbs in 2010
- Run a 10k in 2011
- Develop a life-long pattern of regular exercise and healthy eating
Shorter-term goals
- Lose 25 lbs by summer
- Run (the whole thing) a 5k in 2010
- Work up to running 2 miles on treadmill this winter
My Plan
- Use my Treadmill- I vow to use my treadmill 5 times a week this winter. I plan on doing this first thing in the morning before it is time to help the kids get ready for school. I have done this the past two mornings. I hate waking up early (especially to get on the treadmill) but have felt good after I did. Right now, I walk (with a little running mixed in) for 30 minutes and have done 1 1/2-2 miles. I look to improve on my distance and the length of time I am on there. During Spring-Fall, I usually walk with a friend of mine every morning.
- Watch my Calories- I have really been watching what I eat this week, but will begin actually counting the calories tomorrow. I may also utilize the Weight Watchers point system. Any thoughts on the difference? I will start out with 1650 calories a day. Why that #? Because my "Biggest Loser" Wii game told me. ;) I also know that cutting back too much on calories, can burn muscle and would give me less energy. I need energy and can't afford to lose any muscle. As part of this plan, I vow not to eat french fries at fast food restaurants. That may sound silly, but I love french fries. I eat too many of them. I also love chocolate! I am proud to say that I have not had a taste of chocolate this whole week, despite the jar of candy (leftover from Christmas stockings) sitting on top of my fridge.
- Eat more healthy- Not only will I be keeping track of my calories, but I want to make sure I get my 8 glasses of water in a day and my 5 fruits and vegetables. I will avoid fried and fatty foods.
- Strength training- As mentioned above, I just bought "The Biggest Loser" Wii game. I think I will really like it. I input all my info (what I weigh now, what my fitness goals are) and it designs a personal training program for me. Yesterday, I worked my lower body. Today, I worked my upper body. I really like how it is all set up in circuits of a few exercises. I'm hoping this will eliminate a need for a real live personal trainer at this time. I will have to see how the game works out. I may need to do additional strength training.
- Take it one day at a time. I will not allow myself to be discouraged because I have a bad day or even a bad week. I will not give up!