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Steps To Goal Setting For Sustainable Health By Stacie Rose
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s we approach the promise of a new year, let us first give thanks for blessings large and small. We have all been through a lot these past couple of years. It sounds strange speaking in years, but time has forced many of us into unforeseeable situations. Some have taken up walking for the sake of both physical and mental health. Others turned to mediation, yoga and mindfulness. Pandemic puppies have forced many of us outside to soak in some sunshine and fresh air. Some dusted off their bikes while the weather was cooperative or even scored a Peloton to take into the cooler months. There are many, though, who have let their health slide in a big way. Maybe you fall somewhere between your dreams of good health and self-loathing over your lack of dedication to your wellbeing. It’s hard to keep all the balls in the air. Between work-life balance, family life balance, nutrition, fitness, maintaining relationships, home projects, healthy meals, and creating any balance at all. It’s hard to create a plan and stay the course. It takes a lot. Many of us are short on bandwidth these days and have fallen off the wellness wagon altogether. STEP 1: CONSIDER SUSTAINABILITY. Many of the goals we set for ourselves, although well-meaning, are simply not sustainable. We are fiercely individual beings. What works for your neighbor, sister, co-worker, or partner is not necessarily what will work for you. Take your individuality into account. What are your strengths? What are your limitations? There are many things to think about, such as genetics, personal ideologies, inspiration and aspirations. The goals you set must be goals you feel you can work towards without getting too easily discouraged. We can all create amazingly empowering lives for ourselves. Yet, it’s essential to be clear about specific goals and how we intend to achieve them. Be realistic. Be brave. And above all be gentle, and honest with yourself. You know yourself better than anyone. What choices can you make that will be follow-through-able? 50
