Micro-goals: how to optimise the here and now

In times of uncertainty, planning too far ahead can seem impossible

HEALTH BREAKS

Over the past 12 months, we have succumbed to enforced guidelines on what we can or can’t do. Why not block the external noise out for a moment and take the time to think about what we could do as an individual or as a group (family, work team, friends) to improve our current health status? This could be in the physical, mental, nutritional or social areas of our health. The stages of restriction reviews are coming through in short to medium intervals (2/4/6/8 weeks etc) and open an opportunity to set short-term goals.

We are adapting to an ever- changing environment; with this has come a wave of feelings and emotions. When we are exposed to rapid change like we are now facing, it can lead us to gravitate to what provides us comfort and support. We all want to feel safe. This experience has allowed us to gain the ability to review how we self-manage our health. Now could also be a worthwhile opportunity to look within and to see how we have fared. What have we learned about ourselves and others around us?

“Many of us are starting to realise that our personal health is something we hold dearly, along with the health of those important people around us”

Many of us are starting to realise that our personal health is something we hold dearly, along with the health of those important people around us.

So – what is one area of your health that you have been thinking about during this period that you would like to change or improve?

Micro-goals are small things that can be acted upon in the immediate term. An example of this could be to walk an extra 1,000 steps today; to drink a glass of water first thing in the morning; to stretch for 5 mins every day; to eat a vegetable at breakfast time and so on. These are small actions that contribute to the achievement of greater outcomes.

Health Pillars EXERCISE
Health Pillars FOOD
Health Pillars sleep

Use these steps to map out your micro-goals

  1. Record your vision
  2. Now, think about the outcome you would like in the medium term
  3. What is achievable this month?
  4. What action can be taken next to start making it happen?
  5. What is something you will do this week towards this action?
  6. What needs to be done today to ensure it is done?

Health Breaks partners with you to help guide you towards achieving your health goals – whether big or small. Find out more about our Coaching Programs here

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Author: Kristin McMaster, Director, Health Breaks – encouraging employees to take a break for their health daily