With the arrival of the new year, I am again faced with the same discussion. Clients, as well as thousands of people, reach out to me needing help to maintain their resolutions and achieve their goals. The reality is—we all have different levels of discipline. The problem is—the expectation we set for ourselves.
NOBODY is perfect, so how can we expect to be perfect at our goals? We’re immediately setting ourselves up for failure, which is why we don’t succeed. For example: setting a new diet with no cheats or a training regimen that is meant to be perfect day-in and day-out. Well, how is this possible? Life takes over, good and bad things happen which can affect your plan.
The reality is—we all have different levels of discipline.
Just last night, I had a hockey game that went so long my legs were dead this morning. Yet I had a workout that involved squatting and deadlifting. Everything I just mentioned is healthy. Between the hockey, squats and deadlifts I should be in great shape. Correct? Well, I may be in great shape, but the problem is my lower body is way too fatigued. I struggled to hit my numbers during my workout. This could have been a wrench in my program, but instead of being discouraged, I took a step back and evaluated my program. I needed some recovery work and some rest.
My point is that with goal setting, we need to factor in human error. I started doing this plan years ago and the feedback and results have been astonishing. It’s amazing how the mind and body respond if the error or setback becomes part of the plan.
When it comes to goal setting, we need to factor in human error.
I want you all to try this. Whatever the plan is, start by giving yourself an 80% success rate. Begin with baby steps and build some confidence. You’ll notice that what once felt difficult, will gradually become easier. Whether your goal is nutrition-related or just getting more sleep— track your progress. When you think you made a mistake, note it and understand why it happened. Just make sure you keep these slip-ups in the 20% column.
This approach has worked for me in so many aspects of my life. Moving forward this year, try to follow your resolution 80% of the time, and allow for some flexibility the other 20%. Strive not for perfection—but improvement. I truly feel this will help keep you motivated to continue your journey and achieve your goals—this year and beyond!
A New Approach to Getting Fit in 2020: Embracing Moderation
Learn about losing weight in a sustainable way through moderation.
