Execution is Key

In my last post, I wrote about setting intentions and how powerful this process can be.  I stand by this belief, though there is a second piece required in order to move forward: action.

Intentions without actions are useless.  In fact, intentions without action may not truly be intentions at all.

Let this sink in for a moment.  You can set intentions all day long, but if you recognize an opportunity and fail to act, you haven’t moved, changed, or grown as a result of setting the intention.  Execution is where the true magic happens.

Let’s go back to my Saturday running example.  If I had ignored the invitation to run with a training group on Saturday mornings, would I be the runner that I am today?  Maybe.  Maybe not.  Once I recognized the opportunity, I set a goal that would help me become a consistent runner – my stated goal was to join the group to train for a half marathon.  In order to follow through on this goal, I had to show up and run my planned training runs, whether with the group or on my own.  The program helped me break down the steps to successfully run a half marathon, though I was only able to train my body to get up early and run consistently on Saturday mornings by taking action.

If you’ve set the intention to start exercising, or to be more consistent with your exercise habits, are you seeing exercise opportunities?  What actions can you take to make exercise a regular part of your life?  Perhaps you could sign up for a weekly group fitness class or schedule a walking date with a friend?  Start where you are and define a goal – for example, if you are a beginner, set a goal to walk each day for 10 minutes.  When walking for 10 minutes each day is easy, increase the time to 15 minutes a day.

In addition to daily or weekly goals, longer-term goals can help with improving your fitness level, too.  If you register for a 5K race that is a month or two in the future, for example, your initial near-term goal might be to run-walk 1 mile, 3 times each week.  As you consistently complete your short-term goals, your endurance will improve and you will be able to run-walk for longer distances, eventually building up to the full 3.1 miles for your race day.

Whatever it is that you want to do (fitness-related or otherwise), set the intention, define the goal, and take action to move yourself forward.  In order to change your life, it is imperative to follow through.

If you need help on the fitness front, reach out and let’s confirm a time for your fitness assessment (always complimentary).  I’m interested in your goals and want exercise to be fun and effective for you.

Now, let’s get moving!  🙂