Small changes, big steps

By Hattie MacAndrews Confidence and Mindset Coach

Believe it or not, it’s that time of year again. January, the month we make a series of fanciful promises to become a better, shinier version of ourselves, all in honour of the New Year.

Whether it’s to lose weight, take up a new sport, run the marathon or learn how to cook – we’ve all been there. Perhaps you’ve been on those first few jogs, have been drinking less, or you’ve been sticking to a new diet, in which case I applaud you. In most cases, it’s only a matter of time before the inevitable happens – work/family/ life gets in the way and you forget all about the new shiny you. You feel guilty and disappointed for giving up, but life goes on. What if it didn’t have to be like this? What if you could learn the art of setting sustainable goals and finding the motivation to really see them through? Of course you can, here’s how:

1. Understanding your ‘why’?

A common theme for clients at this time of the year is understanding the art of breaking down goals, and more importantly, knowing how to stick to them. I refer to it as an art because it truly is a way of thinking which, with discipline and perseverance, then becomes a way of life. In a fast-paced society, accustomed to having everything we want at the click of a button, the idea of making small incremental changes can feel slow and frustrating. There must be a shortcut? How can I get this done quickly and more efficiently? What’s the secret? The truth is, there is no secret. A big stumbling block is failing to explore and understand your ‘why’. Let’s take running the marathon for example.

Ask yourself:

What’s my motivation for wanting to run the marathon? What will it feel like once I’ve done it?

Who am I really doing this for? Me, or other people’s perception of me? Will I be happier once it’s complete?

Be curious about your true motivation for achieving your goal, and you’ll have a better shot at success. This exploratory part of the process is just as important, if not more so, than setting the actual goal itself.

2. Find your starting point

Break your goal down into small, achievable steps, as well as having milestones to reach along the way. When we set a goal for the New Year, it can sometimes feel overwhelming and daunting – and we’re left not knowing where to start.

Finding your starting point is simply a case of working backwards. If the end goal is to run the marathon, ask yourself: what do you need to do before this?

Goal: Next year I want to run the marathon

What do I need to do before this? Run the marathon What do I need to do before this? Train, commit, focus What do I need to do before this? Start running What do I need to do before this? Create a training plan What do I need to do before this? Buy running trainers and any other gear needed What do I need to do before this? Confirm date to participate What do I need to do before this? Set aside time to focus on the overall goal What do I need to do before this? STARTING POINT: Find time in my diary

Once you have been through this process, you are left with your starting point. The very first thing, and only thing you have to start with, is finding some time in your diary. All of a sudden your goal feels a lot more manageable as you have small, achievable steps to work towards.

3. Enjoy the process

Finally, enjoy yourself along the way! Remember your ‘why’, and what’s motivated you to set these goals. Setting your own goals and working towards them shouldn’t feel like punishment. Try and take a moment to reward yourself for each step you take that gets you closer – big or small. We’ve been through a lot over the last couple of years, the New Year is not an opportunity to add to your own restrictions and pressure.

Find something that you love, and enjoy the process of getting there.

Roz Runs the London Parks Half Marathon

One of the fabulous founder members of the Style of Wight team, Roz Whistance, has been putting her best foot forward to raise funds and awareness of Target Ovarian Cancer. It is a charity close to her heart as several dear friends have been affected by this disease, which can be hard to spot in its early stages. Roz first ran the London Parks Half Marathon in 2014, and has completed three more since then, with the most recent in 2021 raising £1238.50 for the charity. She is passionate about sharing the symptoms of Ovarian Cancer so more women recognise it sooner, making it easier to treat successfully. She even goes as far as wearing a shirt asking: “Need to wee more?” when she runs.

Other symptoms that should not be ignored include: • Increased abdominal size or persistent bloating • Difficulty eating, and feeling full • Pelvic or abdominal pain • Unexpected weight loss • Change in bowel habits • Extreme fatigue Read more about Roz’s inspirational running challenges and Target Ovarian Cancer on our website styleofwight.co.uk