If you want to succeed, you need a plan. We don’t go on vacation for a week without a plan, why do we leave our future to chance?
First things first – Why do you want to lose weight?
Write a mission statement. Actually write it down. Be positive. “I want to lose this many pounds by this date because I . . . . . Maybe it’s health reasons. Maybe you want to look better. Maybe you want to be stronger. Maybe there are things you can’t do or can’t do easily. Maybe it’s a combination of reasons. Write it down.
Then set your goal. Write your success story! This may sound crazy but write a news headline and a short story of your success. See yourself crossing the finish line before you start. Don’t let anyone tell you it can’t be done – it just hasn’t been done yet!
Using the acronym SMART is the best way to set goals. Write it down under your Mission Statement.
S – Be Specific The most important part of planning for your goals is to identify your goal. Saying “I want to lose weight before the next summer season” is an unattainable goal. But if you say, “I want to lose 100 pounds before June 1”, you have set an attainable goal. It may seem unrealistic, but you have decided where the finish line is. Setting goals gives us the direction we want to go and can keep us on track. Set goal markers – how many pounds per week or month. Goal markers are just short term goals on your journey to success but they measure your progress.
M – Measurable Your goals should be measurable. Decide goal markers to measure your success. If you find yourself ahead, don’t slow down, revise your plan to cross the finish line sooner. If you find yourself behind, add more exercise to your plan or revise your plan so that you can stay on course. Don’t give up or you will never get to the finish line. Even the last runner to finish a marathon has reached the goal.
A – Attainable Your goals should be attainable. You cannot lose 50 pounds in a week without cutting off a leg.
R – Realistic You must be WILLING and ABLE to carry out your plan. Wanting to lose 300 pounds is realistic but not in 30 days. Your plan should take your available time, resources, ability, diet and exercise programs into account.
T – Time Sensitive Your goal and goal markers need time limits. These time limits will give you the feedback you need so that you can celebrate successes and revise your plan if you need to.
Just remember – 
