A few days ago, we asked you to start a win column.
Today, we’re getting into the science behind why it works, because this part genuinely fascinates us!
Finding #1: Tracking works. In behavior-change research, self-monitoring (simply paying attention and writing things down) is one of the most consistently effective tools ever studied.
The act of tracking something can actually change how you behave around it. It’s almost sneaky!
Finding #2: WHAT you track matters just as much. Research on goal-setting shows that people who focus on behaviors (“walk 4 times this week”) tend to stay consistent far longer than people who only track outcomes (“lose 10 pounds”).
Here’s why that makes sense: you control the behavior.
You don’t control the outcome on any given day. So when you only count the outcome, a perfectly good week can feel like a failure. That’s demoralizing, and demoralized people are more likely to quit.
So here’s today’s assignment:
Pick ONE behavior to track this month. Just one.
Some ideas:
- Walks taken
- Protein at breakfast
- Glasses of water
- Nights you get to bed on time
- Strength workouts completed
Write it at the top of your win column, and let the outcomes take care of themselves.
(They usually do. 😊)
What did you pick? We’d love to know!
Committed to Your Success,The Method3 Fitness Team
Method3 Fitness is conveniently located in San Jose. Our team of personal fitness trainers serve clients in Los Gatos, Campbell, Willow Glen and other surrounding Bay Area cities.
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The Method3 Fitness blog is updated weekly by our San Jose personal trainers. All content is designed to improve the way you move, eat, and think so you can achieve your goals and live stronger for today. Check back here each week and LIKE our Fan Page, to stay up to date on the latest tips, strategies and methods to get active, gain energy and get healthy again!