Creating Clarity in Your Fitness Goals: The Storybook Method

Do you feel as though you’re constantly chasing after different goals or taking different vague approaches in an attempt to make some form of progress? Is it hard for you to define what success really looks like or to put into words what you want from your fitness or exercise, making it that much harder to stay motivated?

At Nova Strong, our first step when a client comes to us is to get as granular as possible with what they’re trying to achieve. For some, they have clearly defined aspirations: lose 10 lbs, do their first pushup, improve their DEXA, or even deadlift their bodyweight. For others, they may come in with more general or vague goals: get healthier, get stronger, get more energetic, or even get more toned.

Because we write every program specific to the client, vague goals create a lot of guess work that we want to eliminate. We want to make sure the process we are about to embark on fits our clients like a glove and puts them in the exact destination that they want. We know that the real reason they are here extends beyond the scale or even the barbell, and we want to define and address that reason so that we can bring a deeper level of fulfilment.

That's why we've developed the Storybook Method, a unique approach to goal setting that helps you define your perfect endpoint and easily create a plan to make it happen. Inspired by the classic film "Citizen Kane," this method empowers you to visualize your ideal future and write your own fitness story.

Why Vague Goals Sabotage Your Success

Think about those common fitness goals: "get stronger," "lose weight." What do they really mean? Stronger in what way? How much weight? These vague goals leave too much room for interpretation, making it difficult to measure progress and stay motivated.

The last thing that we want to do is take you somewhere that you’re not motivated to go. For some, getting stronger may mean a new one-rep max, for others, they may hate the idea of lifting a heavy barbell but want to get stronger in bodyweight exercises like pushups or lunges.

True success starts with understanding the why behind your goals. What are you truly hoping to achieve or address? Do you want to increase your confidence? Boost your energy levels? Improve your health markers? What is pushing you there?

Many times, when someone gives us a vague goal, it’s more that they are trying to address something that may be afflicting them. If they want to “get healthier”, maybe it’s because they’ve been feeling less energetic, more stressed or more pessimistic about their lifestyle. If someone wants to get stronger, maybe it’s because they’re lacking confidence in their physical abilities and want to regain function. Either way, it’s important to understand what is driving you there because true fulfillment will include addressing that specific thing.

Once you uncover your deeper motivations, you can set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals that will guide you on your journey.

Unveiling the Storybook Method

The Storybook Method is a creative and engaging way to gain clarity and set realistic expectations. Just like in "Citizen Kane," where the ending scene sets the stage for the entire story, this method encourages you to envision your ideal future self and work backward to create your path to success.

Here's how it works:

Step 1: Envision Your Main Character

Close your eyes and imagine yourself 12 weeks, 6 months, or a year from now. You've achieved your fitness goals and are living a more fulfilled and empowered life. You feel amazing. What adjectives describe you? Are you strong, confident, healthy, energetic, resilient? Pick as many adjectives as you want, but at least three big ones.

Now, the important part: dive deeper. What are the specific attributes and actions that embody these qualities? Are you lifting heavier weights? Running a 5k without stopping? Waking up feeling refreshed and energized? Showing up more confident in a work meeting? Wearing a specific article of clothing and feeling great in it? Overcoming a specific obstacle that you struggle with right now? Paint a vivid picture of your future self in all their glory.

In a good book, it’s one thing to use adjectives to describe a character, but what makes them feel real is the actions and attributes that the author sets them through. Don’t skimp on this part.

Step 2: Craft Your "Ending Scene"

Now, zoom in on a typical day in the life of your future self. What are your daily routines? What type of exercise are you doing? What are your eating habits? How do you manage stress?

Remember, honesty is key and we want to make this story non-fiction. Create a realistic picture that aligns with your goals and values. If your vision includes daily workouts but your current schedule is jam-packed, you'll need to consider how to make adjustments. If your main character is 20 lbs lighter, but is still starting out the day with a frappucino and a chocolate croissant, we may want to check our expectations for what’s realistic.

Step 3: Write the "Plot"

With your "ending scene" in mind, it's time to write the plot of your fitness story. Work backward from your ideal day to identify the necessary steps to achieve your goals. What habits do you need to develop? What skills do you need to learn? What challenges might you face?

Embrace the idea that your fitness journey is a hero's journey. There will be obstacles, setbacks, and moments of doubt. But with each challenge you overcome, you'll grow stronger, both physically and mentally. Cultivate a growth mindset and view setbacks as opportunities for learning and adaptation.

Benefits of the Storybook Method

The Storybook Method has become our go-to method for creating clarity and taking our clients goals to the next level. It uses imagery to help create an extra layer that offers a range of benefits that go beyond traditional goal setting:

• Increased Motivation: Visualizing your future self and crafting a compelling story can fuel your motivation and keep you inspired even when things get tough.

• Enhanced Self-Awareness: This method encourages you to delve deeper into your motivations and values, helping you create goals that truly align with your aspirations.

• Improved Goal Setting: By focusing on specific attributes and actions, you'll naturally develop SMART goals that are clear, measurable, and achievable.

• Greater Confidence: Breaking down your journey into manageable steps and acknowledging potential challenges can build your confidence and empower you to take action.

• Personalized Approach: The Storybook Method allows for a truly personalized fitness plan tailored to your unique needs, preferences, and lifestyle.

Ready to Write Your Fitness Story?

It's time to escape the goal-setting maze and embark on your fitness adventure! Start by envisioning your ideal future self and crafting your "ending scene." If you need help clarifying your goals or creating a personalized plan, our expert coaches at Nova Strong are here to guide you.

Schedule a free consultation today, and let's write your fitness success story together!