"Do or do not. There is no try." Jedi Master Yoda would make millions as a motivational speaker. However the truth of the matter is that most New Year resolutions have the longevity of a Storm Trooper. I already know several friends who have punked out on their resolutions and it has been two weeks.
The reasons are rather simple. Saying "I want to be in better shape" is a recipe for failure. To have any set of goals, one has to set specific ones that are measurable and attainable. It seems that fitness and weight loss are the two biggest resolutions for most college students. What happens though is that if one does not have a plan to lose weight or be in better shape, it gets tossed out the window a few weeks later after one's third binging of an Adriatico's deep dish watching a "Saved by the Bell" marathon.
For those who fall into this category, it's not too late to have a second wind. If one takes his or her overarching goal and breaks it down into smaller, attainable goals, their success rate should be substantially better. When one takes any big task and breaks it down, it is not so daunting. I have the privilege of having to write 30-page research papers on a regular basis. However, I never get worked up about it because I break down the entire process and spread it throughout the quarter. The last thing I want to do is be that crazy grad student pulling a trifecta of all-nighters.
Right now, the RPAC is packed and several students have told me that it is their resolution to be in better shape. "How are you going to achieve this?" Blank stares. Half-baked answers. Meaningful intentions but lacking guidance. Yoda would not be impressed.
First, the question must be asked, "What is it that I want to achieve?" Is it to look swimsuit-worthy during Spring Break? Is it because that five-year high school reunion is coming up? The next thing is to measure those goals? If one wants to lose weight, how many pounds? Be realistic; shedding 20 pounds in a month is an unhealthy approach with limited long-term benefit. Identify available resources (the campus Wellness Center would be a good start). Forking up some cash for a personal trainer at the RPAC would certainly be worth it. People are always more likely to use what they pay for.
Document small achievements and self-reward as progress is made. Keeping close friends up to date with personal goals is a helpful way to gain support and encouragement in order to maintain focus and stay on task. Visualize success and one will be surprised at what he or she can achieve. The Columbus Marathon is only nine months away.
Seth Fishman watched the A-Team and they always had a plan. He can be reached at fishman.31@osu.edu.
2008 Woodie Awards
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