Setting achievable goals is a key step in creating a successful fitness and nutrition journey. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up, having a clear and actionable plan can make all the difference. Use this 10-step approach below to create that plan for yourself to achieve your goals in 2025!

Step 1: Define Your Dream Goal

What’s your ultimate vision? Maybe it’s running a marathon, losing 20 pounds, or building strength to lift heavier weights. Write down your dream goal.

Step 2: Reflect on Your Confidence Level

Now, take a moment to ask yourself: On a scale of 1-10, how confident am I that I can achieve this goal? Be honest. Your confidence level is a great indicator of whether your goal is realistic or needs adjustment. If you’re below a 7, consider modifying your goal to build belief in your ability to succeed.

Step 3: Understand Your “Why”

Goals that resonate deeply are easier to stick with. Ask yourself: Why is this goal important to me? Maybe it’s about improving your health markers, setting a good example for your family, or feeling confident in your own skin. Connecting your goal to your own personal values will keep you motivated when things get tough.

Step 4: Break It Down

Big goals can feel overwhelming. Break your dream goal into smaller quarterly micro-goals. For example:

• Quarter 1: Build a consistent workout routine (3 times a week).
• Quarter 2: Improve nutrition by meal prepping twice a week.
• Quarter 3: Increase strength by lifting 10% heavier.
• Quarter 4: Run a 5K or achieve a specific fitness benchmark.

If quarterly goals feel too overwhelming, try setting a 30-day or weekly goal. Make it manageable for you!

Step 5: Map Out Your Actions

What specific actions will you take to achieve these micro-goals? Write a list for each quarter/month/week. These might include scheduling workouts, attending a nutrition workshop, or tracking your lifting progress in a fitness app.

Step 6: Create SMARTER Goals

Re-evaluate your goals for the following criteria:

• Specific: Clearly define what you want to achieve.
• Measurable: Track progress with numbers or milestones.
• Additive: Focus on what’s being added or improved, not just what’s being avoided.
• Rewarding: Connect to your deeper why and values.
• Timely: Set deadlines to create a sense of urgency.
• Efficacious: Build confidence through achievable steps.
• Relative: Tailor goals to your current abilities, pushing slightly beyond your comfort zone.

Step 7: Identify Who You Need to Become

Ask yourself: Who do I need to be or become to accomplish this goal? For example, you might need to adopt traits like discipline, perseverance, or curiosity. Visualizing this version of yourself can help guide your choices and actions.

Step 8: Seek Support

What support will help you along the way? This could be a coach, gym, accountability partner, supportive friends, or even apps and tools. Surround yourself with resources and people who will encourage and guide you.

Step 9: Anticipate and Plan for Obstacles

Every journey will inevitably result in challenges. Take time to evaluate potential barriers—lack of time, motivation dips, or unexpected life events—and create strategies to overcome them. For example, if time is an issue, have a backup plan to schedule shorter but more intense workouts.

Step 10: Reassess Your Confidence Level

After working your way through these 9-steps, revisit your confidence level: On a scale of 1-10, how confident am I that I can achieve this goal? If your confidence has increased, you’re on the right track. If not, revisit and adjust your plan. Continue making adjustments until you feel confident, no matter how “small” the goal may feel.

Achievable and intentional goals are the foundation of sustainable progress. By reflecting on your confidence, connecting to your why, breaking your goal into actionable steps, and anticipating obstacles, you’ll set yourself up for success. Remember, every small step brings you closer to your vision.