GOAL-SETTING FOR SUCCESS

In rowing, as in so many aspects of life, excellence depends largely on three factors:

1. knowing where you want to go;
2. being motivated to get there;
3. believing in your ability to reach your desired destination.

For rowers interested in increasing the benefits of training and improving performance, goal-setting is perhaps the single-most effective and efficient tool there is.

Of the many tips I like to give rowers about goal-setting, two are especially useful:
Ø      Set short-term, intermediate and long-term goals.
Ø      Don’t hesitate to adjust your goals if you have set yours too high.

Your short-term goal might be improving your catch. An intermediate goal could be bringing up your cadence a certain number of beats by summer’s end. Examples of long-term goals include rowing for the first time in the Head of the Charles, making the first boat in your club, or winning a medal at Nationals.

To determine if your goals are realistic, re-evaluate your progress periodically. Maybe it’s too much to expect to trim 20 seconds off your erg score in just one winter! It’s also important not to set your goals too low.

Why is goal-setting such a powerful tool? Experts say goals may be the strongest of all motivating forces. Well-defined goals allow you to record your progress, providing a clear measure of success. When you reach your goal of trimming 10 seconds off your 2K erg score, you’ll feel like a million bucks! This, in turn, helps you build confidence in your abilities, and that increases your motivation.

Goals also give you a game plan. For rowers, goals create a structure for training and practices. They also give you a sense of purpose, which alleviates the tedium and boredom of daily workouts.

The following tips will help you reach your goals faster:

• Break your goals down into small pieces. You’ll enjoy a sense of accomplishment as you reach each level and build momentum toward your ultimate goal.
• Set goals that are measurable, not subjective.
• Keep your eye on your next goal. This perspective makes your current goal appear much easier.
• Start thinking and behaving as if you already have reached your goal. Your belief system really does influence your performance.
• Don’t let anyone else set your goals for you. You’ll get further faster when you “own” your goals.
• Reward yourself as you go.
• Accept the fact that ups and downs are inevitable.
• Have fun!

It’s been said that only 5% of the population have goals. In other words, simply setting goals puts you in the top 5%!

Mayrene Earle is a life coach and former EAWRC rowing coach who helps individuals achieve greater success. To schedule a complimentary 30-minute consultation, contact her at mayrene@masterscoaching.com or (508) 896-0076.