How to set and achieve wellness goals as a busy parent

We hear about “wellness” a lot these days, and that’s a good thing. But what does it mean, exactly? Wellness is more than just physical health. Wellness is the overall idea of intentionally engaging in healthy habits every day to be mentally and physically “well.” The journey to wellness is a personal one, but it’s often easier with clear, attainable goals. If you've ever wondered how to set effective wellness goals for yourself or your teen, this guide is for you.

Why wellness goals matter

Wellness goals can provide structure and motivation on the path to healthier living. They guide our actions and help us measure our progress, reinforcing positive behaviors along the way. For busy parents, setting wellness goals can also help create a sense of balance and self-care amid a hectic schedule.

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How to set effective wellness goals

1. Start with self-reflection

Before setting any goals, think: What areas of your life do you want to improve? What habits or behaviors do you want to change? Identifying your personal values and priorities can help guide you toward meaningful and realistic wellness goals.

2. Make them SMART

SMART stands for specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. These criteria help you identify clear, attainable goals and have a plan of action in place.

• Specific: Instead of saying "I want to get healthier," specify what that means for you. Is it losing weight, exercising more, or improving your mental health?

• Measurable: Set concrete metrics to track your progress, such as running a mile in under 10 minutes or reducing your screen time by an hour each day.

• Achievable: Be realistic about what you can accomplish given your current circumstances and resources. It's better to start small and build on your goals as you progress.

• Relevant: Make sure your goals align with your values and priorities so they feel meaningful and worth pursuing.

• Time-bound: Set a deadline or timeframe for achieving your goal. This will keep you accountable and motivated.

3. Break them down

When faced with big goals that can feel overwhelming, it's helpful to break them down into smaller, more manageable tasks. By doing so, you'll stay focused on the task at hand and gain a clearer perspective on your progress. You can track your achievements more effectively, which helps keep you motivated and honest about what’s working and what’s not. 

4. Celebrate milestones

Recognition is important! Each milestone you reach is a step closer to reaching your ultimate goal and a testament to your hard work, dedication, and perseverance. By acknowledging and celebrating your efforts, you can boost your motivation while reinforcing your belief in your abilities and your progress. So go ahead, treat yourself, and savor the satisfaction of your accomplishments. You deserve it!

Tips for staying on track with your wellness goals

Sticking to your wellness goals is work in itself. But these tips can help!

• Regularly review your progress: Consistent check-ins can help you stay motivated and adjust your goals and process.

• Be flexible: Wellness is a journey. If a goal isn't serving you, don't be afraid to revise it.

• Celebrate small victories: Every step toward your wellness goals is worth celebrating. Don't discount the small wins.

• Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself if you slip up or struggle. Remember that setbacks are a normal part of any journey.

• Ask for help: Don't be afraid to reach out to others for support and accountability. A friend or family member can make a great check-in partner.

Embrace the journey

Setting and achieving wellness goals is an ongoing process. It requires commitment, patience, and self-compassion. Remember, it's about progress, not perfection. Take that first step today!