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4 Steps to Be a Goal Getter

Post-it note that says, “You can do it!”.

4 Steps to Be a Goal Getter

In the beginning of the year, you might have made a resolution like many folks do. Oftentimes, the intentions are short-lived due to the nature of goal setting. Instead of setting vague goals like “I plan to run every day” or “I am going to stop eating candy,” instead, transfer your mindset from being a goal setter to a goal getter!

What is the difference between the two? Goal setting is when you create a list of what you want to do, which can contribute to a high risk for empty promises and frustration. As a goal getter, you create a plan to achieve that goal. To be a goal getter rather than a goal setter, follow these 4 steps:

1. Start With What You Know

As humans, we instinctively want to seek out something new and exciting when planning ahead. However, many of us forget what we already know. For example, in my Quick & Delish Meal Planning Program, I encourage new members to brainstorm 3-7 meal ideas that they already know and enjoy. Instead of going online and searching for new recipes, my recommendation is to choose something that you have already made and is familiar to you, so that it is easy to get started.

Goal setting concept uses multi colored wooden letters that spell "SMART." Handwriting definition for each of the letters in "SMART."

2. Set S.M.A.R.T. goals

S.M.A.R.T. goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound. This method breaks down goals into reasonable and actionable steps to guide you to accomplishing what you want. This is more about the actions you take daily than the actual goal you want to achieve. Goal getting includes a strategy and a plan. 

  • Specific: Narrow your goal down. Instead of the broad “I am going to run every day,” try “I am going to run for 15 minutes, 3 times this week.”
  • Measurable: How will you determine your progress? A measurable component for an exercise goal could include how you feel physically, emotionally, your energy level, and improved sleep.
  • Achievable: Make your goal something that can reasonably be accomplished within a certain amount of time.
  • Relevant: Your goals should align with your personal values. 
  • Time-Bound: Set a realistic end date for prioritization & motivation. This could look like a time of day to exercise, or participating in a challenge for a certain length of time.

An example of a S.M.A.R.T. goal is:  “I will eat 2-3 cups of veggies per day by including 2 cups of leafy greens at lunch and 1 cup of cruciferous veggies such as cauliflower or broccoli at dinner, 5 days a week, Mon-Fri, for the next 2 weeks.”

3. Pace Yourself

Is your goal a long-term goal? If so, break it down into smaller steps. For example, when you want to start meal planning you don’t want to jump straight into meal planning, grocery shopping, and cooking all in one day. This is not a sustainable approach to meal planning, especially when getting started. If you use the above strategy, starting with what you know, now you have 5-7 meal ideas you already know, then choose 2 and make them! Don’t rush your goals! Life is a journey and adventure, pace yourself.

4. Develop a Strategy and a Plan

To keep going on the actions that push you closer to your goal, and continue developing skills of a goal getter, reflect weekly on how things are going and make adjustments accordingly. Sometimes we underestimate the time needed to accomplish a goal and what we want to do is reduce the risk of overwhelm. If you reflect, have a strategy, and plan, you will be on top of your goals and will not forget them because these goals are important to you. What you truly value is what you take action on.     

To learn about creating your own meal planning system, simplify healthy eating, and get support to meet your health goals, schedule a free one-on-one Nutrition for Wellness Strategy Session. 

To receive meal planning tips, recipe ideas, and learn about meal planning events,  join my email list: https://quickanddelish.ck.page/sneakpeek.

Cheers to your health,

By Alicia Connor, MA Registered Dietitian Nutritionist & Chef

Author Bio:

Alicia Connor a pretty brunette with short-cropped hair wearing a denim jacket with a white tee.
Alicia Connor

Alicia Connor is a registered dietitian nutritionist and chef who lives in San Francisco. She is passionate about healthy cooking, with a focus on simplifying meal planning and making healthy eating easier. Alicia built a successful career as a chef, working at one of the top restaurants in San Francisco. But as her vision declined due to a hereditary condition, she decided to focus on a career with longevity and returned to school to become a dietitian.

Description of image:

  • Post-it note that says, “You can do it!”.
  • Multi colored wooden letters that spell “Smart.” Handwriting definition for each of the letters in “Smart” goal setting concept.
  • Author photo: Alicia Connor a pretty brunette with short-cropped hair wearing a denim jacket with a white tee.
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