4 January 2010

Resolute

Tell me, why do all the stock photos of “new year’s resolution” have an apple and a measuring tape? When did that become the generic symbol for weight loss? Weird. Anyway, the above picture is somewhat inappropriate, as my goals for this year aren’t really about losing weight.

I’m not sure I really believe in new year’s resolutions. I don’t think you need to wait until Jan. 1 to get some goals in your life. You can create new goals for yourself at ANY moment. Nothing is going to change just because the calendar now says 2010. YOU have to change yourself, and that won’t happen on its own. In fact, I recommend starting a new program or goal on any random day! Any day can be a “new” day. You just have to declare it so.

That said, I do want to write out some of my goals for the year, because I think it’s an important way to stay accountable and focused (Winter Shape Up, anyone?). I’m going to use the SMART framework to make sure I don’t set myself up for failure. SMART = Specific, Measureable, Attainable, Realistic, Timely. My goals aren’t outcomes, they’re paths to reach an outcome.

As I’m walking into work each morning, I want to think about one thing I’m looking forward to or thankful for.
Walking into work can feel like a death march at times. Even though I like my job and like the people I work with, I’ll readily admit there are days that I’m tempted to turn around and go back to my car before I make it inside (I KNOW some of you all can relate to that!). This morning, I just briefly thought about a few things I was excited about for the day and a few things I was grateful for. Sort of surprisingly, it actually did help me look forward to the work day. Outcome: a happier, more positive Leah.
Ask myself if I REALLY want it before purchases or calorie splurges.
Miss Veggie Booty says this works for her, and I think it’s a great idea. Most of the time, the simple act of pausing before a splurge is enough. I’ve eaten my fair share of food that’s not only nutritionally void, but also not that tasty. If it’s a homemade version of my favorite, you know I’m not going to pass it up. But if it’s a store-bought, chemical-filled imitation, I hope asking myself this question will stop me from forging ahead anyway. This also works with other types of splurges (like spending). I’m also acknowledging right now that my answer to “Do you REALLY want that?” might just be “Hecks yeah!” Outcome: saving money and calories for things I really want.
Try a new workout or workout move at least once a week until I start training for another race.
I’ll be perfectly honest: I get bored easily when it comes to workouts. The only reason I made it through half marathon training was because I had chatty friends by my side on 90% of my long runs. I get frustrated if I do the same thing a few times and don’t see immediate results. The solution to this is easy: I’m giving myself permission to go nuts and be all over the place when it comes to my workouts. My body is never going to know what hit it! I already tried a few new ones this week. Outcome: less gym fatigue and a more toned physique.
Get feedback on the blog.
I’ve been meaning to ask this for awhile, and now’s as good a time as any. What do YOU want to see more of on the blog? I feel like this blog runs the gamut from personal stories to informational “wiki” posts (as they’ve been called) and everything in between. What do you guys like best? The more informational posts? The personal stuff? Do you like reading answers to reader questions? Want to see more challenges? Your feedback is important to me, so if you have a second, please email me and let me know what you think I could be doing better/more of. Outcome: a better blog!