Motivational Mondays- setting goals

Good morning readers & happy Monday!! Hope you all are getting into the fall season....pumpkin patches, Halloween costume ideas, pumpkin spices, candles, & pie! :) 

Over here in Germany, I am starting to wonder if it is going to get really cold soon! It actually has been a great start to fall & the weather has been gorgeous!! My allergies haven't been so happy, but I have been. 

Here we are going on week 38 in my pregnancy & we are down from 3-4 workout days per week to now 2-3. But...I'll take it! I am really focusing on full body workouts & circuits so I am able to get the most efficient workout within the least amount of time! 

This week I wanted to share with you guys my favorite phrase in fitness..SMART 

This is one of the first phrases that we learn in our personal training course. This phrase is all about goal setting & as November approaches, it means we are so close to closing out the year! Can you believe how fast 2014 has gone???

Setting goals always is important but as people end one year & start another, they often begin setting goals to do, be, & feel better for the upcoming year. 

So what are SMART goals?? 

S--specific---this means setting specific goals for what you want to achieve. No broad goals here. Make it specific & clear. "20 pound loss this year", "sweets only 1x per week". 

M---measurable---how will you know that you have completed your goal if there is no way to measure it? If it's weight--give it a number, if it's exercising--how many times per week? 

A--attainable---aka realistic! Do not set yourself up for failure. You may surpass your goals, but don't put a lot of stress or strain on yourself by setting goals that are unrealistic. Do not say "lose 50 pounds this month". That is not healthy, realistic, or encouraging. Start small & then increase your goals if they are too easily attainable. 

R---relevant---this means cater to you!! What is going to make you better? Happier? Healthier? What can you do that's going to make yourself succeed in your goals. 

T---time---set a time limit. Be realistic! 1 month, 3 weeks? 1 year? Think about your goals & how long it will realistically take to attain them & then set a time limit. Not only will you be holding yourself accountable, but you will be more motivated to get it done!!

As fall continues & winter approaches, we know this means the year is ending. Set some goals for yourself & close out this year with a bang! 

Everyone can get better at something in their lives & goals help you become a better, stronger, more responsible, happier person. You can't lose when you set goals!! 

My current goals have to do with my fitness after baby! Can't wait to share them with you all...but that's a whole other blog :) 

Have a great week & stay motivated friends!! 

-Morgan