At this time of year I find myself struggling to get back into a more regular routine after the summer holidays. This transition from summer to fall always results in me attempting to get back on track with my personal wellness plan. For anyone else who may be struggling to begin, maintain or return to a personal wellness plan, here are some tips you may find useful:

1. Consider first what personal wellness means to you. Everyone has their own unique idea. For me it is to feel fit physically, mentally, spiritually and financially.

2. What areas do you want to improve? Finances, relationships, work, health, personal growth?

3. What goals do you want to reach in these particular areas? When you decide, write them down. Make sure they are realistic and specific. For example, to be out of debt by the end of 2005 or to have lost 10lbs by the end of November.

4. Consider the areas you have chosen to concentrate on and determine what has already been working for you. You do not have to reinvent the wheel. If you are satisfied with your progress in a certain area and it has been working well, maybe you only need to maintain it or vary it slightly.

5. What roadblocks in the past have kept you from reaching your goals? Was time a factor? If so, look at what would work better. Your plan has to include activities you enjoy and are able to maintain without too much struggle. If you hate running but love walking, don’t force yourself to run. Do what you love, not what you feel you should be doing.

6. After writing down your goals, start to develop a plan to get you there. As a coach, helping a client develop a plan is one of the first steps we take after they have set their goals. For instance, if exercise is something you have chosen, decide what type of activity you will do, as well as how often and for how long.

7. What are the first action steps that need to be taken in order to carry out your plan? If you have decided to get out of debt, the first action may be to determine the total amount of debt you are carrying.

8. Once you have determined what steps need to be taken, review them. Are they small enough so as not to overwhelm you? Be realistic. Taking baby steps toward your goal will increase your chances of achieving it. Remember, small and consistent steps will guarantee success.

9. If possible, work with a coach, partner or group for support. Accountability is a great motivator towards achieving your goals and a partner or coach can make it a lot more fun.

10. Most important…recognize accomplishments daily and make a commitment to yourself to improve the quality of your life.

Your level of personal wellness plays a huge part in your happiness, ability to deal with stress and fight disease. I challenge you to grab a pen and start writing your personal plan today.

Wellness