So... Are You Starting This Monday?

[QueenieAbby]

So... Are You Starting This Monday?

by Abby_Campbell, www.911BodyResQ.com

To many, it seems that "Monday" is the magical day to start something fresh and anew.  It could be a home project, a craft, or a job hunt.  Exercise and clean eating are also on the Monday list.  Why is it that Mondays seem to be the pinnacle for most of us?  Yet, we start out right on Mondays and soon find ourselves in the valley by mid-week only to begin the cycle all over again:  "I'll start on Monday."  It seems never-ending!  Doesn't it?

Well, it doesn't have to be that way!  You just need a few tools to help you stay at the top of your mountain throughout the entire week.  So, what are those tools?

• SELF EVALUATE:  Review your behaviors that have held you back from achieving your goals.  Find out what's holding you back, and figure out what can help you overcome.

• PLAN GOALS:  What are your goals?  Write them down.  Start working on one or two of those goals and build upon that.

• PLAN DEADLINES:  Get your calendar or agenda out, and set realistic deadlines for each one of your goals.

• EVALUATE YOUR GOALS:  What is the cost of achieving or not achieving your goals?  What will happen if you do not achieve your goals?  What is your long term plan?  Write the answers to these questions down.

• READ & STUDY:  Reading enriches the mind, and what better way to learn as much as you can on how to reach your goals.  You will be encouraged towards your goals by reading books, magazines, as well as internet articles and forums.  The more you have the information drilled in your head, the more motivated you will be.

• BE POSITIVE:  Encourage yourself by being positive.  Tell yourself that you will achieve your goals.  Surround yourself with positive and motivating people who will help you succeed.  Place positive quotes in areas that you will see every day.

• WORK IT:  Your plans and goals are in place, so it's time to just do it!  Spend a few minutes every morning gearing yourself up for a day of success.  Read over your plan and goals, and make mental notes of what needs to be done for the day.  Most of all, stick to the plan!

• TRACK PROGRESS:  So, you've been working on your plan and goals for a while... a week... a month... two months.  It's time to review your progress?  Are you making changes and moving towards your goals?  If so, GREAT!  There is no need to make changes.  However, if you are not seeing the changes you need to see, then it's time to tweak the plan.

• REWARD YOURSELF:  When you've reached your goal, reward yourself.  Enjoy a nice dinner out without having to be concerned with what you are eating.  Take a couple of days off from exercising and go to the spa for some relaxation.  Go on a shopping spree and buy some new outfits to replace those that you no longer fit in. 

Forget the continuous Monday start-overs!  With your plans and goals, you will be well on your way towards a beautiful body and a better you.  Success lies within your execution of the above tips.  You can do it!