Six ingredients for success; as much as possible, the goals you set for yourself should be: 1. Specific 2. Realistic 3. Measurable 4. Positive 5. Believable 6. Fun

Be sure your goals are stated in positive terms and are believable. For example, “I will maintain composure” as opposed to “I won’t lose my temper”.

You need to believe your goals are achievable and you have what it takes to realize them. Knowing that with the right amount of effort and precision, you can achieve your goal will keep your motivation high.

Keep a journal/log identifying your progress, or lack thereof. Visualize your success, see it, feel it and trust it, over and over again. Sometimes a journal alone wouldn’t cut it. What can keep you accountable and motivated is shouting out your plans for the world to hear. Maybe share goal with your running group. They can be enthusiastic and supportive in seeing you through to the finish line. They may sure you hit your training distance, ask about your progress or send you supportive messages. There’s no better way to stick to goals than letting everyone know about them, and no goal is too small.

But we must also pull out the mental weeds by the roots when doubt, fears and worries first get a foothold. These are self-limiting beliefs and a life-long journey, because after removing one weed, you will find another.