It’s that time of year! Spring is upon us and summer is right around the corner. As we prepare for the season and consider our goals for the next 6-8 weeks there are a few tips I’d like to share that will equip you and keep you moving successfully in the direction you’ve chosen.

Here are 5 tips to keeping forward momentum with the goal at hand:

#1. Be aware of what is happening in the mind! Keep it positive; envision your success; mentally rehearse your winning and be careful not to self sabotage with destructive thinking.

#2. Set S.M.A.R.T. goals! You’ve probably heard this acronym before and I can’t stress enough the importance of this one.  Taking the time to develop your goals is critical and using the “SMART” system will require you to be more specific than “I want to drop some body fat” or “I’d like to gain some muscle”. Specific – Measurable – Attainable – Realistic – Timely goals.  The difference between setting general goals and SMART goals is the accountability as well as solidifying that what you’re asking of yourself is actually realistic in the time frame given. An example of a SMART goal would be; I will drop ___% body fat in 4 weeks by cutting out sugar and 4 days per week of training over the 4 week period. Then, at the end of the 4 weeks, re-assess, check progress and adjust details as needed as well as set new goals for the weeks to come.

#3. Design a “no fail” environment! Clear all cupboards and the fridge of anything that might call your name in those moments when you’re not at your strongest self. It’s not worth the battle! Success is key and temptation is a given at some point so pay attention to the inventory and keep it clean.

#4. “One day of preparation equals seven days of good choices.” Remember to prepare yourself for the week. Try to find a day that works for you and the family to get the kitchen stocked with good eats. Now, when that hunger strikes, or a craving from out of nowhere suddenly implants itself into your brain, you’re more than prepared to give yourself something that will create satiety instead of filling up on empty calories. For example, at my house we like to get all of our shopping completed on Sunday and grill off a weeks worth of protein; We have all of our produce chopped and stored, ready to go in containers. We make fresh salad dressing so that everything is free of preservatives and fillers. This is where you get the family involved! Make it a fun day. Everyone gets to take part in the process and it becomes a day of fun with laughter and great conversation!

#5. HAVE FUN! This is a challenge and while we’re looking to “challenge” ourselves, we don’t want to lose sight of the fun! Keep your eye on the prize. Try to involve the ones around you who support you on your journey to health and wellness and have fun in the process. Be kind to yourself and celebrate the journey! Remember, your thoughts create your life.

 Think it..Believe it..Be it. ™

So here’s to the next step! I look forward to celebrating each other’s successes. Stay tuned for more tips, ideas and recipes to keep us moving in the right direction.