How To Set Goals Effectively (So They Actually Happen)

Effective goal setting is an important part of improving and maintaining good health.

An effective approach is to use process goals, which focus on the steps or actions needed to reach a larger health-related goal rather than the outcome itself.

There are several benefits to using process goals in the health context:

1. Process goals are specific and actionable. By focusing on the specific actions needed to reach a health-related goal, it is easier to make a plan and take the necessary steps to achieve it. For example, if your outcome goal is to improve your diet, a process goal might be to eat a serving of vegetables with every meal.

2. Process goals are easier to measure. It is often difficult to gauge progress towards a long-term health goal, but by focusing on the progress made towards specific actions, it is easier to see what still needs to be done.

3. Process goals can be more motivating. When a health goal seems distant or unattainable, it can be demotivating. By focusing on the smaller steps that lead towards a larger goal, it is easier to stay motivated and see progress.

4. Process goals can lead to better outcomes. By breaking a larger health goal into smaller, more manageable steps, it is easier to focus on each step and do it well. This can lead to a higher level of quality in your health habits and a better overall outcome.

NOTE:

• It's important to be specific and to break the larger goal down into small, achievable steps.
• You should also regularly review progress and adjust the plan as needed. 

For example:

Larger goal: Improve dietary quality and overall health

Process goals:

1. Eat a serving of vegetables with every meal
2. Drink 8 cups of water per day
3. Do at least 30 minutes of exercise 3 times per week
4. Limit added sugars to no more than 25 grams per day
5. Track food intake using a food diary or app to stay on track with nutrition plan (if applicable)
6. Meet a step goal daily 

By focusing on these specific, actionable steps, it is easier to make a plan and take the necessary actions to reach the larger goal of improving health.

These process goals are also easier to measure, as progress can be tracked by counting the number of servings of vegetables eaten, the number of cups of water consumed, and the number of exercise sessions completed.

By regularly reviewing progress and adjusting the plan as needed, it is possible to stay motivated and make progress.

You can download my free goal setting guide here: