Answers (6)
1
Hi Kisar.
As health and fitness professionals, we're always in the position of helping our clients move toward their goals. We also know that goal setting is a prerequisite to success whether it's in the gym, on the field or in life.
Goal setting is more than just identifying what you want. And although the concept of goal setting is easy to understand, my experience is that most people (including their trainers/coaches) use models such the 'SMART' model which fails miserably in the long run. Unfortunately, these models are overly simplistic and lead us to believe that goal setting and the more important issue of 'sticking with it' is easier than it actually is.
Here are a few key principles to helping clients stay on track with their New Years Resolutions:
1. Outcome v. Process Goals.
Studies have proven that when we make process goals we're much more likely to succeed.
Most clients have outcome goals ie: "I want to lose 20 lbs", "I want to fit into a size 6 dress" etc.
Have your clients modify their outcome goals so that they are process goals. Ie: instead of "I want to lose 20 lbs", "I want to be more mindful of how I nourish my body. I will pay attention to how food makes me feel after I eat it". In the process-oriented goal, the client focuses on the actions they must take to achieve their goal. Notice the difference? The process goal has a positive effect on self-efficacy and self-confidence. Both of which are critical to long term success.
2. Goals must be emotionally compelling and aligned with core values.
Goals have to be worth striving for. If they're not emotionally compelling, our clients are likely to 'fall off the wagon' when the smallest of obstacles presents itself. An emotionally compelling goal aligns with your clients core values for health and wellbeing. Too often people make goals that don't align with their deepest values. Eventually they feel conflicted about the goal and frustrated when they lose interest in the goal itself.
3. You must deal with self-sabotaging thoughts, beliefs and attitudes.
This is the main reason why traditional goal setting doesn't work. When we fail to address the underlying (limiting) thoughts, beliefs and emotions that are triggered when we set a goal, the chance for long-term success is dismal at best. As health and fitness professionals it helps to have a basic understanding of how to help our clients deal with their limiting thoughts and beliefs. My certifications as a life coach and an advanced Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) practitioner have given me the tools I need to work with my clients in this capacity. However, there are a ton of great resources out there for trainers and coaches if they are interested in exploring this type of work in their business.
In Health,
Lisa Engles
As health and fitness professionals, we're always in the position of helping our clients move toward their goals. We also know that goal setting is a prerequisite to success whether it's in the gym, on the field or in life.
Goal setting is more than just identifying what you want. And although the concept of goal setting is easy to understand, my experience is that most people (including their trainers/coaches) use models such the 'SMART' model which fails miserably in the long run. Unfortunately, these models are overly simplistic and lead us to believe that goal setting and the more important issue of 'sticking with it' is easier than it actually is.
Here are a few key principles to helping clients stay on track with their New Years Resolutions:
1. Outcome v. Process Goals.
Studies have proven that when we make process goals we're much more likely to succeed.
Most clients have outcome goals ie: "I want to lose 20 lbs", "I want to fit into a size 6 dress" etc.
Have your clients modify their outcome goals so that they are process goals. Ie: instead of "I want to lose 20 lbs", "I want to be more mindful of how I nourish my body. I will pay attention to how food makes me feel after I eat it". In the process-oriented goal, the client focuses on the actions they must take to achieve their goal. Notice the difference? The process goal has a positive effect on self-efficacy and self-confidence. Both of which are critical to long term success.
2. Goals must be emotionally compelling and aligned with core values.
Goals have to be worth striving for. If they're not emotionally compelling, our clients are likely to 'fall off the wagon' when the smallest of obstacles presents itself. An emotionally compelling goal aligns with your clients core values for health and wellbeing. Too often people make goals that don't align with their deepest values. Eventually they feel conflicted about the goal and frustrated when they lose interest in the goal itself.
3. You must deal with self-sabotaging thoughts, beliefs and attitudes.
This is the main reason why traditional goal setting doesn't work. When we fail to address the underlying (limiting) thoughts, beliefs and emotions that are triggered when we set a goal, the chance for long-term success is dismal at best. As health and fitness professionals it helps to have a basic understanding of how to help our clients deal with their limiting thoughts and beliefs. My certifications as a life coach and an advanced Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) practitioner have given me the tools I need to work with my clients in this capacity. However, there are a ton of great resources out there for trainers and coaches if they are interested in exploring this type of work in their business.
In Health,
Lisa Engles
0
First and foremost would be to establish REASONABLE goals. Too often, people are inspired by "the moment" to make goals that may be too difficult for them to attain or maintain (think about how many start, from scratch, going to the gym EVERYDAY as part of their resolution, when prior to that, they didn't go at all).
Take small steps would (and is) always my advice.
I hope that helps.
LaRue, CSCS
Take small steps would (and is) always my advice.
I hope that helps.
LaRue, CSCS
0
In addition to making goals reasonable, as LaRue quite correctly pointed out, I also suggest to people to make them specific. For example, rather than having "I will eat healthier" as a goal, I suggest to friends and clients to use a phrase like "I will eat oatmeal for breakfast instead of Pop Tarts". I also tell people to commit the goals to paper and put them in a place where they are visible.
0
I tell my clients to start their resolutions right after christmas (or a few days before) and maintainthem throughout the new year. Makes January 1st not seem so paramount when you've been doing it for a few days already.
0
What helps me achieve my goals is writing it down. Reading it when I start my day and at the end of the day. To keep me me focus and avoid distractions that will prevent me from achieving my goals.
Steve Vicera CGFI
ACE Certified Personal Trainer
Certified Stott Pilates Instructor
Steve Vicera CGFI
ACE Certified Personal Trainer
Certified Stott Pilates Instructor
0
Writing them down and posting them is VERY beneficial. We are creatures of habit, and though we mean well, we often forget. Try posting notes on the mirror in the bathroom, on the refrigerator, in your car... places you frequent the most. Hopefully after 14 days, many of these resolutions become HABITS.
