What's your goal?

In one of my recent sport psychology classes, there was a large portion devoted to the concept of goal setting. I thought it would be information I already knew. I  have planned out rather lofty goals. If you ask me where I want to be in 5-10 years, I would have a rather clear answer. I like to think with big ideas.

But my reading suggested some interesting concepts, that I realized I tend to overlook. Here are three of my favorite points:

1. Make Performance Goals - Don't just focus on the outcome but pay attention to what you need to do to get there.

My personal performance goal:  Practice "the false grip" everyday. By doing this, I will one day reach my bigger outcome goal of doing a Muscle Up!

2. Tell People! - One of the best ways to achieve a goal is to have the support and encouragement from people around you. Also, they help keep you on track and motivated on those days when you don't feel like working.

My people: I tell my siblings. The thought of telling my sisters I haven't been working on my goals (or even working out) is enough to keep me going. And I love them for that.

3. Don't just plan for the future - Make short term goals. - I need to remind myself of this everyday. Sometimes I get so busy planning where I will be in the next few years, I forget about what is happening in the present. By making and achieving the smaller goals, it helps make all those lofty ideas seems more realistic.

My short term goal:  Ride my bike everyday for a month. So far, I'm at day 3.

Take away lesson: Make a list of your goals. Include the little pieces, the small parts that you need to achieve first. What are you hoping for in a week? Two weeks? Or even a month? Once you have your plan . . call your sister. (Or whoever can keep you motivated!)