Following on from my last carnival Blog Post How to Start the Goal Setting Process I will now describe how you can take action to start the process of achieving your goals.

Now that you have a list of specific goals it is time to take each goal and break it down into smaller steps. This will become your blueprint.

I will use “I want to lose 5kg in the next 10 weeks” as an example. Below are some suggestions.

1. Over the next week I will clear out of my cupboards and refrigerator the following things: chocolate, chips, cakes, sweets, anything high in sugar and salt, and frozen convenience foods.

2. I will seek healthy eating options.

3. I will ask my family to support me.

4. I will write down what I eat each day.

5. I will consume a maximum of 1 glass of alcohol each week.

6. I will stop smoking.

7. I will exercise each morning/evening (whatever suits you) by walking 2 km at a brisk pace.

8. I will weigh myself once a week, at the same time and day each week and place it on a chart.

To remind yourself of what you are doing you could write these down on a piece of paper and tape it in a place where you will see it regularly e.g. a mirror or door.

As you complete each step you can tick or cross it off. You will be able to see visually your progress.

When you achieve your 5 kg weight loss you can reward yourself – buy a new piece of clothing, new shoes, or maybe a new electronic gadget – whatever you want.

Please remember it is all well and fine to state your goals and the steps to achieve them but unless you TAKE ACTION – NOTHING and I mean NOTHING WILL HAPPEN.

Good luck and let me know how you are going with your goals.

See you next time.

Janice