Systems Are Better Than Goals
When I ask clients about their goals, I often hear questions like, “How do I lose 10 lbs, my belly, get toned, and be healthy?” Unfortunately, as life gets busy, we tend to delay our well-intentioned plans. We tell ourselves we’ll start next Monday, and before we know it, weeks, if not months, have passed.
The reality is that current data shows only 1% of people stick to a “lose weight and get fit” decision 12 months later. That means 99% of us fall off the bandwagon. But what if I told you there’s a way to join that 1%, and not just at the start of the year—but even during the busiest, most stressful times?
Here’s how you can do it.
1) Decide What You Want
There’s a difference between wanting something and deciding to go after it. Wanting to lose weight keeps you stuck in a perpetual cycle of “starting next Monday.” Deciding to lose weight gets you started today.
Pro Tip: Don’t overthink it. Whatever your goals are, start with the basics:
- Get 10,000 steps daily.
- Eat three balanced meals, including protein, veggies, and healthy carbs.
- Strength train three times per week.
These simple actions will get you started without overwhelming you.
2) Develop a System for Success
Goals are great, but systems are better. Why? Because a system allows you to be flexible and adjust to life’s demands without losing focus. For example, if your system includes getting 10,000 steps in daily, you can achieve this in a variety of ways—whether it’s walking on a treadmill, doing yard work, or spending the day at a local event. The activity doesn’t matter as long as the system keeps you moving.
Pro Tip: Consistency is the key. Without consistency, progress stalls. If you’re stuck on where to begin, check out The Secret to Weight Loss; 3 Simple Tips to Get Started.
3) Work the System, Not the Goal
Goals can feel intimidating or discouraging, especially when results don’t come quickly. A system, however, focuses on actions. The more you work your system, the more progress you’ll make.
Try running your system for a few weeks and see how it fits into your life. For example, if your system includes meal prepping on Sundays, but you’re always out or busy on Sundays, then it’s time to adjust. Maybe meal prepping is better suited for Mondays, or perhaps batch cooking isn’t your style at all. Either way, a system lets you experiment and adapt without losing momentum.
Pro Tip: Build a system that works for you and your lifestyle, and be willing to tweak it as needed. If you get stuck figuring out your system, we can help. You can schedule a free goal meeting with one of our coaches here
The Bottom Line
Losing weight and staying healthy doesn’t have to feel like an uphill battle, even during the busiest time of year. By deciding what you want, developing a flexible system, and staying consistent, you can achieve your goals without the pressure of perfection. Systems create lasting habits—habits that will make sure you’re not just part of the 1% who stick with it, but that you stay there for good.
So, what’s your system?
