Feb
8
The Value of Public Goals
Filed Under Communication, Motivation
On Monday I shared a few of my goals for the month of February. Following that conversation, I happened to talk to a few of my friends about my business trip. I was describing the quality of food that was available at one of my meetings when one of them commented “so much for no candy this month…”
Now I did have a bit of chocolate fondue on my strawberries at the dinner I was describing to them but I had rationalized it to myself as “that’s not candy”. So while we talked I replied that I was still on track. However, at the next day’s dinner, I found myself leaving the dessert tray alone. I realized that those around me knew about my goals and my pride would not allow me to come close to breaking those goals.
It was an interesting realization for me, just how much I care about the opinion of those around me, especially my friends. I don’t believe I’m a vain or shallow person who only cares about what others think of him, but the opinions of people who I care about do matter to me.
So what’s the lesson in all this? Well, the lesson is in how important it is to share information about your goals with others around you. Tell your friends and family about what you’re trying to accomplish. It will get them on your side, it will get you some help on occasion and it will motivate you to stick to those goals. I firmly believe that motivation is 90% of the key to good health. So if this helps your motivation then it’s a good thing.
Also, if you’re on the receiving end of communications about health goals, be sure to be supportive. I think that’s something I’ve failed at a few times in the past but I’m trying to change. The people around us can be our best allies or our worst enemies when it comes to health and I’m going to try and be much more supportive.
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Good communication and a supportive network of friends, coworkers and family are some of your best weapons when it comes to motivation and good health.
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2 Responses to “The Value of Public Goals”
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Talk about being public and putting it out there. I found that putting my goals on my blog has really helped me stay focused and on track. I think it’s because I “gave my word” so to speak and I want to be consistent in walking my talk. I don’t have to be perfect just forward moving. So many people are so nice and supportive amongst the Internets.
I agree with this 100%. And it works with everything - not just weight loss. Go ahead and tell your friends that your going to make $500 online this month and see how many of them call you out at the end of the month.
We tend to forget how much of a positive push we can get from saying our goals aloud. Great post.