As the saying goes, a goal without a plan is just a wish. Utilize these 3 techniques to be successful.
What separates those who are successful from those who stumble or fail? Work ethic, of course, has a lot to do with it. But if you’ve found yourself working hard and not making the kind of progress you’d like, perhaps it has to do with your goals and how you see them. There’s a tendency to set vague goals and similarly vague timelines to achieve them. How many people do you know who “want to lean down,” or are “trying to be more successful”? These phrases are like moving targets in a fog! There’s no real way to gauge progress and no finish line. Let’s change that!
Grab a Pen and Paper
Journaling can be a great way to set a course for where you want to go. Let’s take physique goals, for example. As you sit quietly in a place with no distractions, think about your ideal physique. What do your shoulders look like, your back, abs, legs, etc.? Write down everything you see in full detail, and write it in present tense. For example, you might write, “I have beautifully capped shoulders, which tie into my well-developed upper chest. I carry more muscle than I have previously, but it flows and ripples naturally.” Picture how your ideal physique moves. See yourself walking down the street, running, jumping, and even admire yourself in the mirror. The more details you can see in your mind’s eye, the better. Continue writing in as much detail as possible. The more detailed your goals are the more likely you will attain them.
Everything on Earth is Created Twice
Before anything materializes, it starts as an idea in someone’s head. Thoughts become things. This is why it’s important to take the time to “see” yourself as you truly want to be. The options are endless, and you really can create your ideal physique and your ideal life. Once you have the details in your journal, take time to live them out every day. For example, I still visualize my ideal physique – both before training and during! I take my PEAK ATP, drink my coffee, and concentrate on how I wish to look. This process helps with pushing through the last few tough reps – because you know you’re working towards your goals and greatness!
Repeat Often
Thoughts become habits, and habits become a lifestyle. Once you have your goals set continue to visualize them. Take time either before bed or right when you wake up, and right before training. This is the Law of Attraction! As James Allen said in his book, As a Man Thinketh, “you cannot travel within and stand still without.” If you have achieved something over and over in your mind, you will achieve it in reality!
Thank you for reading! Until next time, train hard and visualize your ideals, y’all!
Erin Stern, 2x Ms. Figure Olympia | TEAM PEAK athlete