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1. What goals should one prioritize with a focus on their health?

It is important to focus on goals that will help one feel better, prevent worsening of any conditions, and perhaps even improve chronic conditions. Many choose to focus on physical health with goals such as improving their diets, drinking more water, and getting more exercise. Mental health should also be a focus by improving sleep habits and finding effective ways to cope with and manage stress. The number of goals can seem immense, and it may be difficult to focus on what your top priority should be. In moments like these, it can be helpful to talk to your physician and to others who are looking out for your best interests. An in-depth discussion can determine your most important goals and how best to achieve them.

One thing to keep in mind when setting goals is that they should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (or “SMART”). Asking yourself if your goal meets these criteria can allow you to determine if you will be successful!

2. Is it better to set far-reaching goals, or ones that are more realistic and achievable?

Initially, it is better to set goals that are more realistic and achievable. This is especially important if you are beginning something new. Setting goals that are far-reaching can be helpful, but they should be viewed as something to work toward over a long period of time. It helps to understand that setbacks can (and probably will) occur. Instead of looking at something that didn’t go right, focus on the things that have gone right. You have probably accomplished a lot of things you had not thought possible, and you have improved in many ways! By reaching the realistic and achievable goals, you’ll find that the far-reaching goals are moving closer.

3. Can goals on lifestyle impact one’s health?

Absolutely. The common goals of improving diet, quitting smoking or alcohol, and getting more exercise, for example, can reduce the risk of developing serious conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. They can also prevent existing conditions from getting worse. Additionally, these habits (along with others such as improving sleep patterns and engaging in activities that allow you to manage stress more effectively) can have positive effects on mental health. Over a long period of time, you will find that improving these habits will also improve your quality of life.

4. What tips can help individuals stay motivated throughout the year?

Focusing initially on small goals is a good place to begin. Evaluating what you have done and determining what you can do will help you avoid getting in a rut and being frustrated. It is also important to know what your limits are, as frustration and even anger may occur if you find that you are not able to accomplish something you desperately want to do. With time and the changes you’re committing to, you will find that these accomplishments will come!

Setting specific goals is helpful too. Many people say they want to exercise more, for example, but choosing a set amount of exercise will give you a focus. You may not achieve that goal quickly, but you can begin at a lower level and build toward the bigger goal. Always remember to keep a positive attitude when you are doing this and think about your successes (regardless of how big or small they may be).

Another helpful piece of advice is to find your ideal environment for accomplishing your goals. Some people work best focusing solely on themselves, but others may benefit from being involved with others working on similar goals. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to talk to your physician or healthcare provider.

Remember, life can always throw us curveballs. Stresses such as illness, family concerns, and jobs affect us all. Don’t take any of these stresses as signs to give up on your goals. Focus on what you have accomplished and what you can do during rougher times as best as possible.

5. How often should goals be monitored or adjusted?

How frequently to monitor and adjust goals depends on the type of goals. For example, walking a certain number of steps or drinking more water can be monitored daily. Weight loss, on the other hand, should be evaluated after a few weeks. Evaluating exercise routines and making adjustments should also be done over a period of weeks. Don’t get discouraged. If something isn’t working, it is best to make small changes instead of major changes that could set you back. Also, when you are monitoring goals, focus on how you feel in addition to the numbers. Pounds lost and minutes of exercise completed only tell part of the story. Take time to check in on yourself and see how you are doing, but do not do this too frequently. That may produce unnecessary anxiety, stress, and feelings of inadequacy or even failure. It may lead you to make changes that may be disruptive or even harmful. Remember what led you to make changes in the first place—a desire for better health. You are worth it, and you can do it!