subject: Running Goals - The 4 Steps For Setting Goals And Creating A Run 2 [print this page] Setting the right running goals is the first step toward getting what you want out of running. When you are setting your running goals, you answer a very important question: "what do you want from running?" once this question is answered, it becomes the ultimate goal.
Goals: roadmap to success
Goals provide clarity and direction, without them-you will be mostly running in the dark and still stuck in one place without any noticeable progress. If you really want to get the most out of your running program, then you must start setting the right goals.
How to set goals
If you want to set the right type of goals, you have some homework to do. Don't worry it's actually simple and doesn't need much thinking. Here are the 5 steps to goal setting:
1- Decide on your goals
The first step obviously is deciding on what you want from running. Why do you want to start a running program in the first place? Are you starting a running program for mainly physical reasons? Such as losing weight and achieving your desired waistline. Or you are starting a running program for mental reasons?
2- Write down your goals
Once you have decided on your goals, it's time to write them down, why? You may ask. An unwritten goal carries no attention behind it; it's usually a mere wish that you don't actually believe you can achieve it.
But when commit your goals to paper, you give your unconscious mind a clear signal on what you want and that you are serious about it. It's like signing a contract, while it may seem like a small act; it's a sign of commitment and will help to keep you motivation high even in low moments of training.
3- Set a deadline
By setting a deadline on your goals, you add a sense of urgency to it. A goal or decision without a deadline has no urgency behind it and you will naturally procrastinate, therefore you may never get to achieve it on time. Thus you should have a clear date in mind on when to get you goal done.
4- Take action
Yes this is the one. Take action on your plan immediately. Just thinking about it won't make it happen Without action nothing will happens even if you go through the above steps a thousand times. Action is the key to results.
