A Worthy Goal

Yesterday, I wrote about using the SMART system for developing your goals for 2011.  After I hit the publish button, I got to thinking that it might be helpful for you to hear about how I’m taking my own advice.

As I’ve said before, I think 2011 is going to be a great year.  With all the junk that seemed to follow me, my family, and my friends this past year, I can’t wait for the ball to drop 🙂  It should be said that there were some pretty great things that will forever be attached to 2010, like  the birth of some special babies I know, but overall, it was pretty dreary.  Too much stress! Too much drama!  So, it’s time to turn things around, get a fresh start, and improve our lives.  Are you with me?

For now, I want to fill you in on one of my big goals for 2011, and it is BIG.  I want to run in a marathon. How’s that for specific? Yesterday, I cashed in one of my Christmas presents and met with a personal trainer.  Tracey is going to meet with me three times over the next few months, laying out a training routine so that I’ll be properly prepared.

One of the key things she noticed right off  is that my muscles are really tight, and I need to concentrate on some stretching exercises.

In addition to the personal training, I’m going to participate in a 10 week fitness challenge set to begin January 8th.  I’m psyched for this adventure, which, from what I understand, is set up a bit like the Biggest Loser TV show.  I can’t wait to get into peak shape with a group of like-minded people who will cheer each other on.  What a great way to start the New Year.

Completing the challenge and personal training sessions will help move me towards my goal, so I’ll be able to measure my progress by finishing them.

In order to achieve my goal of running in a marathon this fall, I’m going to have to work really hard. Although I’ve put a tremendous effort into improving my overall health this past couple of years, there’s much to be done if I’m going to reach this milestone.

Developing a solid exercise routine is first on the agenda.  I have to lose some of the weight that I’ve gained over the last several months, and I need to gain some muscle.  Even though I’m still fairly young (indulge me) and healthy, a marathon is no cakewalk. Trying it without being properly prepared will lead to injury or worse.

So, just how relevant is this goal to the bigger picture of my life? Perfectly.  If you would have seen me when I was 65 pounds heavier and getting sicker by the day, you would know that this will be a big step towards the kind of transformation that is at the root of making all things new.

Finally, the timeframe for achieving this most worthy goal is October of 2011.  Ten months.  It will go quickly. I didn’t want to wait until 1/1/11 to get started, even though it’s only a few days away.  As with any goal, properly planned out, the time to start is NOW.

So, if you were going to have one worthy goal for 2011, what would it be?  How long before you get moving on it?