Hi danifantatic,
Interesting question. The important things about goals is they have to be S.M.A.R.T. which means Specific, Measurable, Realistic and Time stamped. Also, when you are first starting out the more achievable the goal is the better. Start simple. Once you build up your confidence and motivation you can move on to more difficult goals. Ok so lets examine your goals:
to change my sleep patterns
to go the gym at least once a week
to finish reading my book
Ok so these are great goals but to help motivate you a little more lets tweak them. You first goal is great but it can be more specific. It also is not time stamped of measurable. So lets think about what we can change it to. How can you change your sleep patterns? You could get up earlier in the morning, you could meditate before bed, you could exercise during the day? What you need to do is find something you would like to work on to achieve the overall goal of changing your sleep patterns. An example of a new goal is: Get up an hour earlier then normal every day this week. Or meditate for 15 minutes every evening this week. Remember to start they can be very small goals. They can be simple steps to achieving a larger goal.
Ok now your next goal. This is a very good goal. Its time stamped, measurable, it has all the qualities of a SMART goal but if you have never started going to the gym it may be a little over whelming. Perhaps try going for a walk three times a week or doing sit ups at home three times a week. Something a little more achievable.
Finally, your last goal, to finish reading your book. I especially like this one. But it needs to be time stamped. Perhaps instead of simply finishing your book you could make your goal read for 30 minutes four times a week.
Be sure to make the goals suited to what you want. Let us know the new goals you decide upon!
Looking forward to hearing back from you.
Members, any advice? What are your goals and how do you take steps to achieve them?
Ashley, Health Educator