As we close the chapter on 2024, it's time to reflect on the journey we've taken this year. What a year it has been! Like many of you, I experienced my share of highs and lows. After 15 years with one company, I found myself laid off—but that setback opened the door to new adventures. All in all, it wasn’t a bad year. As the saying goes, “When one door closes, another opens.”
This year, I made significant progress in my coaching journey by guiding a number of endurance athletes toward their goals. Personally, I pushed my limits in running, completing eight races: distances of 5, 8, 10, 21.1, 35, and 42.2 km (twice - including the Boston Marathon). I even tackled my first 50 km race! While Boston didn’t go as planned, I’m grateful to have remained injury-free this year.
Now, as the year winds down, we naturally turn our thoughts to the future. It’s the perfect time to set goals and plan for the coming season. What races will you run? When and where will they be? Are you ready to tackle a new distance or aim for a personal best (PB)? The anticipation of a fresh start is exhilarating!
The Power of Planning
Achieving our dreams requires intention. As the saying goes, “If you don’t plan for it, it won’t happen.” Or, in the words of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, “A goal without a plan is just a wish.”
But how do you set goals that truly set you up for success? Start by reflecting on the past. What did you accomplish this year? Did you hit the PB you trained for? Were you consistent in your training, or did injuries or life get in the way? Taking stock of where you’ve been is the first step toward a successful future.
Setting SMART Goals
Once you’ve reflected, it’s time to look ahead. Are you ready to take on a new challenge? Perhaps it’s time to incorporate more strength training, chase a PB, or try a new race distance. Whatever your ambitions, setting SMART goals can help you get there.
Here’s how:
Specific - Define your goals clearly. Break them into smaller, actionable steps. For example, “I will run three times a week” is a mini-goal that supports an overall goal like “I will run a sub-4:00 marathon.”
Measurable - Track your progress. Use a calendar, journal, or training app to log your sessions and stay on course.
Achievable - Be realistic about what’s possible based on your current fitness level and past performance. For instance, qualifying for the Boston Marathon might not be achievable if you’ve never run a marathon before. Build up to big goals with smaller steps.
Realistic - Align your goals with your level of commitment. If your motivation is high (9 out of 10), but your commitment is lower (6 out of 10) due to work or family obligations, you may need to adjust your expectations to fit your lifestyle.
Timely - Set a realistic timeframe to reach your goals. Training for a 5 km race might take 8 weeks, while preparing for a marathon could require 16–20 weeks. Ensure your timeline matches the scope of your goal.
The Year Ahead
As you plan your goals for 2025, remember the wise words of C.S. Lewis:“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”
If you’re ready to take your training to the next level and need guidance to achieve your goals, I’d love to help. Reach out to me at kingswellperformance.com or send me a DM on Instagram at @kingswellperformance.
Let’s make 2025 your best year yet!
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