3 Steps To Successful Goal Setting

Tips from a coach (and six-time Ironman Hawaii finisher) on how to set concrete goals this season.

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Goal setting doesn’t have to be complicated! Think through your goals in these three steps: 

1. Sit down every morning to write out your goals. After several weeks of doing this, read through your notes and mark the phrases that appear frequently, then summarize your goals succinctly and write out a short list.

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2. Start a practice of saying goals out loud to yourself and noticing your reactions. This will help you recognize issues (fears, doubts, assumptions) that you will need to address.

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3. Train your attention and focus around these goals. This can be done alone or with a coach. Note your habitual patterns of thought and address the biases and patterns that are obstacles to achieving your goals. Recognizing these and working to restructure your attention and focus through various techniques—such as breathing, visualization and cognitive training—will give you your best chance of success.

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