It’s September. How are we suddenly three-quarters of the way through the year?
Seems like a great time to reflect on the progress of our New Year’s goals. Have you smashed them, achieved some of them… any of them? Did they last past January? If you’ve been reading for a while, you might recall our article on setting SMART goals at the beginning of this year. No matter where you are with your goals – achieving everything you wanted or still meaning to get around to them, it’s not too late to reset and refocus. We’ve still got a few months left in the year! Of course, if aches and pains have sabotaged your goals, we are here to help with that.
The power of SMART goals: Let’s revisit the SMART goals framework:
Specific: Your goal should be clear and specific. Ask yourself what you want to accomplish, why it’s important, and what steps are needed to achieve it.
Measurable: Ensure your goal is measurable so you can track your progress. Include quantifiable milestones to help you stay on track.
Achievable: Your goal should be realistic and attainable. Consider the resources and constraints you have and set a goal that is challenging yet possible.
Relevant: Make sure your goal aligns with your broader objectives and is worthwhile.
Time-bound: Set a deadline for your goal. This helps create a sense of urgency and encourages consistent progress.
Tips for resetting and refocusing:
Review and reflect: Understanding the reasons behind your progress (or lack thereof) can provide valuable insights. Life might have thrown some curveballs, so how do you plan to overcome the most predictable ones in the future?
Adjust your goals: If some of your goals no longer seem relevant or achievable, don’t hesitate to adjust them. Life changes, and your goals can too.
Break it down: Large goals can be overwhelming. Break them into smaller, manageable tasks. This not only makes them less daunting but also allows you to celebrate small wins along the way.
Write it down: A goal in your head is just an idea. Writing it down commits and focuses you. It serves as a constant reminder of what you’re working towards and helps to keep you accountable.
Stay positive: It’s easy to get discouraged if you haven’t made as much progress as you had hoped. Stay positive and focus on what you can do now.
Seek support: Share your goals with friends, family, or a professional coach. Their encouragement and support can be invaluable in keeping you motivated.
And we’re here for you too. If you’re finding it challenging to stay on track with your goals due to physical discomfort or stress, our Osteopaths are here to help. Our team is dedicated to helping you feel your best so you can achieve your objectives.