Setting health goals is straightforward, but defining the necessary steps and systems to follow through is where the challenge lies. The first step is ensuring that the patient fully understands the significance of the goals and what they stand to gain. Next, it's essential to guide them in choosing, or even co-creating, a system that suits their lifestyle and needs. Every patient is different and their approach will vary. However, by involving them in the decision-making process, they are much more likely to stick with the plan.

Helping Patients Set Achievable Health Goals Patients often struggle with setting realistic health goals. Here are strategies to guide them towards success: Break Large Goals into Small Steps: Simplifying goals makes progress more manageable and less overwhelming. Use SMART Goals: Encourage patients to set Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals for clarity and direction. Celebrate Small Wins: Recognize progress to boost motivation and keep them committed. How do you help patients with their health goals? Your insights could inspire others!

I think that many patients (and people, healthcare workers included) are better at setting goals but the follow through is challenging particularly the ability to remain consistent and unwavering in their exercise and diet routines and choices. Not only do the many require assistance with goal setting but an actual plan for remaining consistent and true to their health status needs. Covid, burnout, PTSD, and other disturbances and stressors made a lasting impact on the population. Support networks for remaining consistent are what is needed and regular follow up from your primary care team and other providers is essential. Exploring alternative health care options is also helpful for staying on track. Always be patient with yourself!!

The goal needs to be measurable and time based, ie. they need to be able to know when they have hit the goal, and by when they need to hit it. They should know what repeatable actions will feed in to them achieving the goal (eg. running 3 times per week).

Helping patients set and achieve their health goals involves more than just outlining objectives it requires a personalized approach that integrates their unique lifestyles and needs. By actively involving patients in the decision-making process and co-creating tailored systems, we empower them to take ownership of their health journey. This collaborative effort not only enhances adherence but also fosters a deeper understanding of the benefits, ultimately leading to more sustainable health outcomes.