The start of a new year is full of optimism. Many people resolve to make big changes, such as losing weight. I was one of them. In January 2023, I was overweight and determined to make a change—for about the third time in three years.
For the first two months, I tried to lose weight on my own. I cut back on snacks, ate less, exercised sporadically, and hoped for the best. By March, I was down about 8 pounds, but my motivation had waned. Frustrated and discouraged, I realized I needed a better approach.
That’s when I hired a fitness and nutrition coach. Over the next nine months, I lost 35 pounds and developed a new lifestyle. The difference? I had clear goals, accountability partners, and a system to keep me on track. Looking back, my experience mirrored the principles of SMART goals and the discipline of a system like EOS.
Why Resolutions Like “Lose Weight” Often Fail
When I started, my resolution was vague: “I want to lose weight.” Like most resolutions, it lacked structure, direction, and accountability. I tried cutting calories and exercising more, but without a plan, my efforts were inconsistent.
Here’s why resolutions like mine fail:
Vagueness: “Lose weight” doesn’t define how much, how fast, or how to achieve it.
No Plan: I had no clear steps to follow.
No Accountability: Without anyone checking in, it was easy to lose focus..
The Power of SMART Goals
When I started working with my coach, everything changed. We set SMART goals together:
SMART Goal: “Get down to 160 pounds by December 31 by following a structured nutrition plan, exercising 4 times a week, and tracking my progress weekly.”
Why this approach worked:
Specific: I knew exactly what I wanted to achieve.
Measurable: Weekly weigh-ins and progress photos made my results tangible.
Achievable: My coach ensured the plan fit my lifestyle.
Relevant: The goal aligned with my desire for better health and energy.
Time-bound: A deadline created urgency and focus.
By breaking the larger goal into smaller, actionable steps, I always knew what I needed to do next.
How a System Like EOS Helped Me Succeed
In addition to setting SMART goals, I used a system resembling EOS principles to stay on track. This disciplined approach transformed my efforts.
Quarterly Milestones: I broke my goal into losing 10 pounds every three months.
Weekly Check-Ins: My coach reviewed my progress and adjusted my plan when needed.
Scorecards: I tracked my workouts, meals, and weight consistently.
Accountability: My coach and fitness partners celebrated wins and supported me during challenges.
These elements ensured I stayed focused and consistent, even when motivation dipped.
My Key Takeaway
In hindsight, my initial resolution failed because I relied on willpower and vague intentions. What worked was having clear goals, a structured system, and accountability.
Whether your goal is to lose weight, save money, or advance your career, the lesson is the same: resolutions aren’t enough. By setting SMART goals and using a system like EOS, you create a sustainable path to success.
In January 2023, I was 40 pounds overweight, frustrated, and stuck. By December, I had achieved my goal and developed a healthier lifestyle—thanks to SMART goals, a clear system, and accountability.
This year, don’t just hope for change. Plan for it. With the right tools and support, you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve.