Set Goals, but Don't Tell

We've spent a lot of time at GPP extolling the virtues of setting SMART goals.  Not setting SMART goals might be one of the most often over-looked aspects of becoming fit and healthy.  Winston Churchill said it best.

"Those who fail to plan, plan to fail." 

This is as true as it ever was.  What seems to be at issue is - WHO should you tell your goals to?     

Behaviorists used to say that we should tell EVERYONE of our plans to become fit and healthy.  Doing so was thought to help us get some skin in the game and give others the opportunity to lend support. 

That's not the advice given by experts anymore.  It turns out, it is better to keep your goals secret.  Here is why by Derek Sivers. 

How Trainers Fudge #s

How most trainers measure their clients is one of the dirty little secrets of the health and fitness world.  

Most of them try to cheat you.  

How can a trainer cheat you with measurements?  

Many trainers try to lull you into a false sense of progress by measuring you in dozens of different sites (2 on the neck, shoulders, 3 on the torso, 3 arm sites - both arms, 5 leg sites - both legs, etc.).  When you see a BIG number at the end of several weeks of training, crummy trainers have an easier time tricking you into buying another package.  

"Wouldn't you like to continue seeing numbers like these, Mrs. Jones?"  

GPP only measures in 7 sites.  Most of the time 4.  It is enough to see progress, or lack thereof - which is the only purpose for measuring.