Goals are more than measurements!

Like most everyone, I can obsess with the "numbers". I want to lose X pounds, I want to have a Y waistline, I want to get down to Z body fat. Objective goals are good, they are measurable and give you something both to reach for and something to track your progress by. But in the end, what do those numbers MEAN? Is losing X pounds actually going to make you healthier? Will you be satisfied with a Y waistline? Will you actually like what you see in the mirror at Z body composition? Will the lifestyle you will have to live to reach and maintain these measurements be worth it?

I believe in addition to the objectives of measurements, we need other objectives... accomplishments. These should be something verifiable... something concrete. Walking a mile without hurting knees or aching back. Climb 3 flights of stairs without breathing heavy. Hike a few hours with a daypack of food/water without fear of a knee giving out. Kayak to the store and back on the lake. Be able to do a forward fold and slide your palms under your feet so your toes touch your wrists without bending knees. These are goals which are both verifiable and actually bespeak a quality of life, not only in health but in attitude.

I think it is important to not only set goals of measurement, but goals of activity and lifestyle. Sometimes a goal, especially of activity or lifestyle, involves many more achievements than weight or waist size. That is why one of my goals is to be able to do "one handed peacock" pose by age 50!

One Handed Peacock Pose