Extraordinary Health Magazine EH Magazine VOl 32 | Page 46

Staying
Motivated
to Meet Your Goals
by Don Saladino
DON SALADINO
Certified trainer and owner of Drive495 in
New York; Fitness expert in Men's Fitness
and on major television shows; Trainer to pro
athletes, celebrities and everyday people
As we approach a new year, I am again faced with the same
discussion. Clients, as well as thousands of people, reach out to me
needing help to maintain their resolutions and achieve their goals.
The reality is—we all have different levels of discipline. The problem
is—the expectation we set for ourselves. NOBODY is perfect, so how
can we expect to be perfect at our goals? We’re immediately setting
ourselves up for failure, which is why we don’t succeed. For example:
setting a new diet with no cheats or a training regimen that is meant
to be perfect day-in and day-out. Well, how is this possible? Life takes
over, good and bad things happen which can affect your plan.
Just last night, I had a hockey game that went so long my legs were
dead this morning. Yet I had a workout that involved squatting and
deadlifting. Everything I just mentioned is healthy. Between the hockey,
squats and deadlifts I should be in great shape. Correct? Well, I may
be in great shape, but the problem is my lower body is way too
fatigued. I struggled to hit my numbers during my workout.
This could have been a wrench in my program, but instead of being
discouraged, I took a step back and evaluated my program. I needed
some recovery work and some rest.
My point is that with goal setting, we need to factor in human error.
I started doing this plan years ago and the feedback and results have
been astonishing. It’s amazing how the mind and body respond if the
error or setback becomes part of the plan.
I want you all to try this. Whatever the plan is, start by giving yourself
an 80% success rate. Begin with baby steps and build some confidence.
You’ll notice that what once felt difficult, will gradually become easier.
Whether your goal is nutrition related or just getting more sleep—
track your progress. When you think you made a mistake, note it and
understand why it happened. Just make sure you keep these slip-ups
in the 20% column.
This approach has worked for me in so many aspects of my life.
Moving forward this year, try to follow your resolution 80%
of the time, and allow for some flexibility the other 20%.
Strive not for perfection—but improvement. I truly feel
this will help keep you motivated to continue your
journey and achieve your goals—this year and beyond!
44 Vol 32 • Extraordinary Health ™
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Vol 32 • Extraordinary Health ™ 45