When I am tempted to quit or lose focus, I find encouragement from one of the greatest men in the Bible who demonstrated determination and a passion to complete a job—Nehemiah. He had a vision to rebuild a wall of protection around the city of Jerusalem and set specific and realistic goals to get it done. He did not roam around aimlessly, but took his time to get a clear and realistic plan, as described in one of my favorite books by Andy Stanley, Visioneering.
My favorite verse that so well describes Nehemiah’s determination is his response when others tried to distract him from his vision of rebuilding the wall. “I am carrying on a great project and cannot go down” (Nehemiah 6:3). He was completely focused on the end result and not ready to give up.
A Vision
Before setting specific and realistic goals, the first step is to create a vision for your health. A vision is something you are continually working toward…not a check off. Without it, you will be tempted to fall off course by letting other things distract you and you will eventually quit. Let me give you a personal example.
My Wellness vision states:
“I am feeling and looking fit (not perfect) by exercising 4-5 days a week and spending daily quiet time with God and my family.”
By having this as a statement for my life, it is easy for me to say yes or no to certain things that support my vision. My vision is a priority and focus for me.
Set Specific Goals
Just like Nehemiah’s plan, specific goals must be set that support your vision. When I hear someone say, “I am going to exercise more,” I reply with the following questions:
- “How much more exercise?”
- “What type of exercise?”
- “How many times?”
Without knowing the answers to these questions, it is like roaming around in the wilderness with your eyes closed thinking you will eventually get out. It won’t happen. Your exercise goals must be defined specifically, for example: “I will walk for 30 minutes three days a week.”
Be Realistic
Let’s not forget goals have to be realistic and fit your busy lifestyle. My husband loves bike riding and trains for a couple of biking events a year. During training season, it usually consists of several hours each Saturday morning. I have been asked why I do not train with him. The reason is it does not fit within my vision nor is it realistic for me and the schedule I want to keep. Trying to bike would only cause me frustration, which would lead to quitting because of an unrealistic fitness goal. Maybe one day when my life has a different schedule and a different vision, I will ride with him. For now I will concentrate on other goals and be his biggest cheerleader.
What is Your Vision?
If you want to stick to an exercise program, take a few minutes to create a vision of what you want to be, look and feel like. Once you have that vision, set specific and realistic goals around it that fits your busy lifestyle.
I believe you can do it.
In Good Health,
Crystal
