Warning – goals can make us feel futile and unmotivated if they are set incorrectly …

So just been reading some data based on latest study regarding goal setting. How they impact us short term and long term How they affect us in terms of motivation – feelings of self belief – failure – stress etc This is not something new to me working in this field of fitness – health and wellness for over 16 years.

When you sit down with someone to design a plan to enable them to achieve what they want. A lot of the time the client will look at me and ask me what their goals should be. My answer is – not my goal Sounds harsh doesn’t it .. but (There’s always a but) Ok yes I have knowledge – I have data – I have experience to guide the goal in many ways which I do. However the importance of a goal to be achievable – enjoyable – and something that you light up thinking about the challenge rather than cause anxiety and more stress.

The current research is reinforcing the need for goals to be as enjoyable as the end goal looks.

Due to the increasing numbers of people setting goals – doing the hard yards – achieving that goal and still not feeling what they thought they would .. this results in feelings of loss – lack of purpose ( look at top athletes – movie stars etc who have reached the ultimate goal and are disillusioned by being there- then drop into mental health issues)

Be real about it It is easy to drop into the pleaser mode or the perfectionist mode for example but how sustainable and how enjoyable is this for you? When you learn about self – what you love – get excited about what you can do with a little bit of work the journey becomes easier and more sustainable .. My point – Be careful when you set your goals – make them achievable for you. They are yours no-one else’s ..

The Year of Me -2021 goal setting tool that I use in clinic is available for a limited time If you would like a copy either comment below or jump On my website – and subscribe to my mailing list.