Logo image
Weight managementHealth checkAbout usHealth information
Contact usBook a consultation

Goal Setting for Successful Weight Management

Cover Image for Goal Setting for Successful Weight Management

The SMARTER Goal Formula

Forget vague aims like "I want to lose weight." Instead, use the SMARTER system to structure your goals effectively:

Specific:

Clearly define what you want to achieve. (e.g., "I will walk for 30 minutes, 4 times this week.")

Measurable:

Include numbers so you can track progress. (e.g., "I will reduce my calorie intake by 300 calories per day.")

Achievable:

Be realistic about what you can manage right now. A goal should challenge you but not overwhelm you.

Relevant:

Your goal must fit your lifestyle and your long-term plan.

Time-bound:

Set a deadline to create urgency and focus. (e.g., "By the end of October, I will have lost 5 pounds.")

Evaluate:

Regularly check how your goal is going. Did you succeed? If not, why? Rewind/Re-adjust: If a goal didn't work, don't give up. Adjust the target, not the entire plan.

Focus on Small, Sustainable Changes

The biggest mistake people make is trying to change everything at once. Small, sustainable changes build momentum and lasting results.

  1. Ditch the Diet Mentality Instead of "going on a diet," focus on lifestyle changes. Goal to include one extra vegetable with dinner, or swap a sugary drink for water every day. These small swaps are manageable forever, not just for a month.

  2. Plan for the Week, Not Just Today Look ahead. If you know you have a busy day, plan your meals and activities in advance. Set a goal for meal prepping (e.g., "I will prepare five healthy work lunches every Sunday afternoon"). This removes the daily stress of deciding what to eat.

  3. Prioritise Non-Scale Victories Your weight is just one measure. True success is found in Non-Scale Victories (NSVs). Set goals related to fitness, sleep, and confidence: "I will be able to walk up the Cornwell's stairs without getting out of breath." "I will fit into trousers I haven't worn in six months." "I will consistently get 7 hours of sleep per night."

These milestones are powerful motivators that keep you moving when the scale stalls.

Start Your Journey with Cornwell's

If you're ready to set effective goals and need professional support, our Staffordshire Weight Loss clinics (located within your local Cornwell's Chemists) are here for you. We offer personalised support to help you evaluate your current habits and set a SMARTER path to long-term health. Visit your local branch to speak to a member of our specialist team.