How to Set and Achieve Your Athletic Goals: A Multi-Sport Athlete’s Guide

Hey there, athletes! Laney here! Juggling multiple sports keeps me busy, but it’s also taught me the importance of setting and achieving goals. After all, the “Laney Way” is all about progress and celebrating the journey, not just the destination!

Athletic goals

Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or just starting out, setting clear goals is key to unlocking your athletic potential. Here, I’d like to share how to set and achieve your athletic goals and provide some tips to help you crush them!

Building Your Athletic Vision: From Dreams to Achievements

Dream Big, Plan Smart

Start by brainstorming your biggest athletic dreams. Do you want to qualify for a championship? Master a specific skill? Maybe you just want to improve your overall performance. Once you have a big-picture vision, it’s time to get specific.

SMART Goals

The best goals are SMART

  • Specific: Clearly define what you want to achieve. Instead of “get faster,” aim for “improve my 100-meter dash time by 2 seconds.”
  • Measurable: Track your progress! Use data (times, distances, reps) to see how close you’re getting to your target.
  • Attainable: Set goals that are challenging but achievable. Don’t bite off more than you can chew initially.
  • Relevant: Make sure your goals align with your overall athletic aspirations.
  • Time-Bound: Set a realistic deadline for achieving your goal.

Break It Down

Big goals can feel overwhelming. Break them down into smaller, more manageable steps. Think of them as stepping stones leading to your ultimate destination. This will make the process seem less daunting and keep you motivated along the way.

Action Plan and Accountability

Now, create an action plan! What specific actions will you take to reach your goals? Schedule dedicated practice time, identify resources that can help you (coaches, training programs), and create a visual reminder of your goals (vision board, calendar). Sharing your goals with a coach, teammate, or friend can also add a layer of accountability.

Celebrate the Journey!

The “Laney Way” is all about celebrating the journey, not just the destination. Acknowledge your progress, big or small. Did you finally nail that technique you’ve been working on? Did you beat your personal best? Take the time to celebrate these victories – they’re proof that your hard work is paying off!

Adapt and Overcome

Things don’t always go according to plan. There will be setbacks and unexpected challenges. That’s okay! Use them as learning experiences. Reassess your goals and action plan as needed, and adapt your approach if necessary. Remember, staying focused, determined, and flexible are key ingredients for success.

Remember, setting and achieving goals is a journey, not a destination. By following these tips and staying dedicated to the process, you’ll be well on your way to reaching your full potential as a multi-sport athlete.

Now it’s your turn! Share your athletic goals and how you plan to achieve them in the comments below!

Keep striving for greatness,

Laney