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MAXimize Your Goals - Part 1: Outcomes vs. Behaviors

Learn a psychological approach to your goals so you'll actually achieve them!


Goal setting is a hot topic as we approach the start of the new year. When you look at New Year's resolutions from year to year, you'll most likely see "get in shape or "lose weight" at the top of the list. For many, it’s only a list of feel-good intentions but no actions or results. In fact, 84% of new year’s resolutions, aka your goals, fail in the 3rd week of January. That is why, Blue Monday, the 3rd Monday in January, is considered the most depressing day of the year.


With this in mind, what can you do to make those goals more attainable?


Start by changing your "outcome goals" into "behavior goals".


Sounds simple, but what does that mean? Let's break it down...


An outcome goal is just what it sounds like: what you want the final result to be.


An example of this would be, "I want to lose 15 lbs. in X amount of time". There is absolutely nothing wrong with setting outcome goals. However, the problem we run into when setting outcome goals is twofold:


1. First, the outcome is out of our control

2. We aren't sure what steps we need to take to reach those goals


In contrast to outcome goals, a behavior goal is an action or practice that is going to help you attain your outcome goals. An example of a behavior goal would be, "I'm going to exercise three times a week for the next two weeks." There are several reasons why changing your outcome goals to behavior goals will maximize your success.


First, behavior goals should be completely within your control. You can decide to go to the gym and work out, eat a more balanced diet, get more sleep, etc. Setting behavior goals allows us to focus our attention on those things we can control rather than focusing solely on the outcome. You can support your outcome goal with as many behavior goals as necessary to obtain it.


Where to start?


First, behavior goals need to be attainable, so set one short-term goal. Try working toward it for a few days or weeks at a time until you make the practice a habit, then move on to another behavior goal for the next two weeks. Once you can turn your behaviors into habits, you will be much more likely to commit to long-term habits and ultimately reach your outcome goals.


Stay tuned for part 2 where we will continue to discuss tips and tricks for goal-setting!


No matter your fitness goals, if you are ready to take your personal fitness or training goals to the next level, schedule your free consultation today!


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We work with you to identify your goals, then create a plan that will Maximize your results! No two plans are the same.


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Meet Coach James

James Spencer, Founder


I was born and raised in Southeast Kansas and developed an interest in sports and fitness early in life. To pursue my passion in teaching and coaching, I received a Bachelor of Science in Education from Pittsburg State University in 2007. I taught physical education and coached basketball in a rural community south of Kansas City for 7 years, and in 2013, I completed my Master’s Degree in Human Performance and Wellness.


In 2014, our family relocated to Joplin to be closer to our family and I continued teaching and coaching in the Joplin School District. I currently teach physical education and serve as the assistant boys basketball coach at Joplin High School and also serve as the Joplin Middle School cross country coach.


Through my career as a teacher and coach, I have developed a passion for helping others achieve their goals. For that reason, I have worked to receive certifications from NASM-CPT, Precision Nutrition Level 1, IronMan and Revo2lution Running.


My family is my biggest motivator in all that I do. My wife, Kayla, is currently a pediatric physical therapist for the Joplin School District. We have two children, Emery (age 8) and Cale (age 5). Our family enjoys an active lifestyle, loving to run, cycle, swim, hike and be outdoors together.




 
 
 

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