According to an article in Psychology Today, people tend to set goals about 25 percent higher than they are likely to achieve. In effect, their beliefs about their own capacities are a little greater than their actual abilities. Be careful to set realistic goals.

Self-perception, or how one views oneself in relation to his social world, is also essential to achieving any goal, says licensed therapist Jill Lowery. Lowery adds that having a positive self-perception, taking responsibility & being accountable for your actions, and being secure in yourself all have a direct relation to your ability to achieve your goals.

Many people who set weigh loss goals don’t have the highest self-perception, at least when it comes to body image, and may be hesitant to go to the gym and be surrounded by people who appear to be fit and in shape. It helps to remember that you are more than just your body image, that you are doing this because you have a goal and you know what you want to feel/look like, and that these “beautiful” people had to start somewhere too.

Success starts in your head. Make sure you’re mentally prepared to get the job done.

In addition, there are four major actions common to people successful at setting and achieving goals. They are:

1. They act independently.
2. They assume responsibility.
3. They tolerate frustration.
4. They approach new challenges with enthusiasm.

Now that you know these things, examine how can you modify your outlook so you place yourself in a position for success. You can do it!

Tips for Planning

Here are some tips on how to plan your goals:

1. Make a commitment to yourself and the goals you want to achieve.
2. Set realistic, not just reasonable, goals. Your long-term goal may be to lose a lot of weight, but instead of focusing on the end result, break your goal up into smaller, more easily attainable goals so it’s easier to see your results. For example, resolve to lose a few pounds per week, or to exercise four times per week. By achieving success in small steps, you are more likely to stick to your program and attain your long-term goal.
3. Visualize achieving your goals. After you’ve broken down your goal into smaller parts, visualize yourself attaining these goals. By knowing in your mind that these goals are actually attainable, you are more likely to turn them into a self-fulfilling prophecy.
4. Write it down. To track your progress, it helps to write down an outline, make notes, and review these things regularly. Write down your goals and sub-goals. Outline your basic diet and exercise routine, and how you’d like to see these things progress. Make notes on how you’re doing.
5. Begin by making small changes. Don’t try to become the Fitness King right away. Start to slowly modify your diet, such as by switching to lower-fat dairy & meat products, sugar-free beverages, and paying attention to carbohydrate content. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Walk as much as you can.
6. Seek companionship. Tell others about your goals and develop them into a support system. You’ll find that they help you keep on track as they ask you about your progress. You may even find a workout partner in the process.
7. Create a competition with friends and family. By sharing a common goal with others, you pay more attention to it and have a greater incentive to work on it.
8. Create rewards for yourself. When you achieve one of your goals, such as losing a few pounds in a week, or sticking to an exercise routine, give yourself a reward. Get a massage, go to an event, get a new outfit. Just make sure your reward isn’t in conflict with your goals (i.e. bingeing at the local buffet).
9. Stick with it. Experts agree that it takes at least 30 days for changes in your routine to become habit, and up to six months for the habit to become a permanent part of your personality. What seems hard initially (like working out) will eventually become no sweat.

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