How to Set Goals

How to Set Goals… That Work

We all know how important it is to have goals, but setting the right goals can make all the difference. Over the years, I’ve learned that goal-setting is an art—it’s about being clear on what you want, breaking it down into manageable pieces, and adapting as you go. In this post, I’ll show you how to set goals that are meaningful and keep you motivated and moving forward, no matter what you’re aiming for.

cartoon of a coach describing to an athlete how to set goals

Start With Specific, Measurable Goals

Let’s start with the basics: if your goals aren’t specific and measurable, they’re just wishes. A good goal should:

  • Be personal: Your goals should reflect what you want, not what others expect of you.
  • Be measurable: How will you know when you’ve succeeded? Make sure there’s a clear way to track your progress. This could be results, times or even how to perform a movement.
  • Have a timeline: A goal without a deadline is easy to push aside and forget about. Give yourself a target date to stay focused.

So, think about what you want to achieve. Write it down, make it specific, and attach a deadline to it.


Think Big With Long-Term Goals

Long-term goals are where the real magic happens. These are the big, exciting things you really want to achieve—things that might take a year or more to accomplish. They’re your North Star.

For example:

  • Running a marathon if you currently only run 10k.
  • Completing an Ironman if you’ve never done one before. (Check out ‘How long does it take to train for an Ironman‘)
  • Swimming 1500m in under 25 minutes when your current time is 35 minutes.

My Advice for Long-Term Goals

  • Pick something that excites you and feels just out of reach.
  • Be flexible—life happens, and long-term goals should be adaptable – I will speak more on this later.
  • Use your long-term goal to guide all your smaller ones.

Big leaps take time, but they’re worth it when you see how far you’ve come.


Build Momentum With Medium-Term Goals

Medium-term goals are your stepping stones. These should feel challenging but achievable within a few months. They give you the confidence to keep going while keeping your long-term goal in sight.

Here’s what I mean:

  • If your goal is to run a marathon in a year, you could aim for a half marathon in three months.
  • Training for an Ironman? Complete the full bike distance after three months, then add the swim and bike together after six months.

Medium-term goals are about measurable progress. They’re not just practice—they’re proof you’re moving in the right direction.


Focus on the Process With Short-Term Goals

This is where the hard work happens. Short-term goals are all about the process. They’re smaller, more focused, and often skill-based.

For example:

  • If your goal is to swim 1500m faster, focus on improving your stroke technique or breathing.
  • If you’re aiming for a marathon, work on strength training or mobility to avoid injuries. Or increase your running volume by 10% by the end of next month.
  • For an Ironman, practice holding a set power on the bike for a little longer or staying in an aerodynamic position comfortably.

What Makes a Good Short-Term Goal?

  • It’s specific: You know exactly what you’re working on.
  • It has a deadline: No open-ended goals here!
  • It builds toward your medium-term milestones.

Short-term goals are where you’ll spend most of your time, so make them clear and actionable.


When to Adapt Your Goals

Here’s something I tell every athlete I coach: it’s okay to adjust your goals. Progress isn’t always linear, and sometimes you’ll exceed expectations—other times, you’ll fall short.

Cartoon of a man sitting at a desk dreaming of standing at the top of a podium
  • If you crush a short-term goal: Maybe it’s time to aim higher with your medium-term or long-term goals.
  • If you miss a target: Reassess and ask yourself—do I need more time, or should I tweak my approach and move onto a different short term goal?

Medium-term goals are a great checkpoint for your long-term aspirations. If you’re hitting them, you’re likely on track. If not, it’s worth taking a step back to adjust.


Set Goals Today for Tomorrow

Setting goals isn’t just about dreaming big—it’s about creating a plan that keeps you inspired and accountable. Start with your long-term vision, break it down into medium-term milestones, and focus on short-term actions.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, I would be really interested to see how you get on with your goals.

About Me

Chris Searle the head coach of efficient endurance

Hi, I’m Chris.

I’m a professional coach with 14 years of experience. My coaching approach is all about time efficiency. Every session is designed to get the most out of your available training time, helping you improve without unnecessary effort.

I focus on smart, effective training that maximises your progress in the shortest time possible.

You can read more about my coaching journey on the About page.

 

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