"People with goals succeed because they know where they are going." - Earl Nightingale
"Without goals, and plans to reach them, you are like a ship that has set sail with no destination." - Fitzhugh Dodson
When many of us first started going to the gym, we had 'goals'. I use 'goals' in inverted commas because they often lacked specificity and a clear plan. They were more like vague visions that we hoped might magically come true once we put on our activewear.
"I want to lose a bit of weight." "I want to feel better." "I want to look better in my swimmers."
Often, when we say these things, we are secretly thinking of an extremely lofty outcome, but our fear and doubt cause us to shy away from committing to something specific. When we enter the gym with no direction, no steps, and no specific outcome in mind, we inevitably end up disappointed with our lack of progress.
To avoid this situation, we must set a specific goal. It can be big or small, short-term or long-term, physique or performance-related, but it must be specific. Be bold with your trainer during your goals session and state what you truly want to achieve.
Then, collaborate with your trainer to discuss and lock in the weekly habits and routines that will help you work towards your goal. These are your steps to success. All that's left is to stay disciplined with these habits and routines. With your goals now explicit and your trainer keeping you accountable, they become infinitely more attainable.
Remember: dream big, but dream specific. With a specific goal, consistent weekly habits, and support from your trainer, success is inevitable.