As I continue to refine my goals and warm weather is approaching in Chicago, I’m trying new tools to stay focused and energized. Since studies show keeping track of what you do helps modify behavior, I thought I’d try one of those apps that helps keep track of the food you eat. I kept coming across the “Lose It!” app in various publications. So, that sounded like a solid one to use. You start by putting in information about yourself including the health goals you want to achieve. The app even helps you figure out how you can achieve certain goals. So, I started the program the app suggested.
After a couple of weeks of using it, I haven’t achieved my goals. So, why am I writing about this app and tracking what you do to achieve goals? Well, I’ve realized that maybe my goals were misguided. After keeping track of the food I ate, I realized I might not need to eat less (as the computerized app suggested), but instead I should be more mindful of the kinds of foods I eat. (I always thought I ate enough protein, but now I realize the amount isn’t in the appropriate proportion to my carbs and fats.) This is good news since trying to eat less didn’t feel right, and I wasn’t motivated to stick with that behavior throughout the week. With my new perspective on what I ate (i.e., my behavior), I’m modifying my goals (not because I gave up on my original goals) but because I discovered a goal that is more in line with what is important to me and found a better way to achieve it.
So, are there goals that you might be trying to achieve and not succeeding? Maybe your goal isn’t right for you or your approach is off. For example, do you think you watch too much TV or spend too much time out socializing? Maybe the amount of time you’re doing these activities is just fine, but you should re-look at what types of programs you’re watching or if you’re spending time with friends who truly energize you. So go ahead and set your goals, but build in time to check in with your goals and assess your behavior. With a greater awareness of my behavior, I was better able to create more appropriate goals that are truly based on my values. Ultimately, these kinds of goals take less energy to pursue, are more motivating, and allow me to be happier in the end. After all, isn’t that the point of a goal?
