Goals and Motivation – What’s In It For You!

In preparing your Behavior Change Plan, it’s important to set a measurable, attainable goal along with a goal date.  The goal date is when you plan to reach your goal.  If you are trying to lose weight, it may be to lose 20 pounds within the next 3 months.  Someone who smokes a pack a day may set a goal of completely stopping in 6 months.  Whatever you choose, it’s best to write it down and share it with people who will support you as you make your changes. 

 

In addition to defining your goal and goal date, you should understand your motivation for making these changes.  Is it for your health?  Is it to better enjoy life with your family?  Is it to get into that bathing suit this summer?  Whatever it is, you should write it down and look at it frequently as you implement your Behavior Change Plan.

 

Please share some comments and motivations to change that you found effective in your own life.

 

Dr. Bob

 

 


Planning Makes Sense – Have You Tried It?

When making changes to lose weight, increase exercise or stop smoking many doctors, health coaches and advice books state that developing a plan for change is essential.  I agree with that approach.  You should set attainable goals with a target date and plan how exactly you are going to make the necessary changes to attain your goals.

What do you think?  Have you ever used such a plan?  What other tricks do you have to share?