When we decide to change our lifestyle, start exercising, or shift toward healthier nutrition, the first thing we usually do is set a goal. For some, it’s about having a beautiful body. Others want to become stronger, build endurance, or simply feel healthier and more balanced. But the truth is that the way we formulate our goals is what determines whether this new lifestyle becomes a lasting habit or just another short-lived attempt.

The least sustainable goals are the ones tied to deadlines, seasons, or specific events. When someone says, “I want a beautiful body for the summer,” or “I want to lose weight before my birthday,” it already shows that the motivation is temporary. It does not come from a deep desire to change one’s life but only from a momentary push. Once the event passes or the deadline approaches too quickly, the motivation disappears. And if the goal is not reached exactly on time, many people tend to give up completely, feeling disappointed rather than inspired to continue.

To build a long-term relationship with sports, you need goals that go far beyond a single moment. Try to understand that true motivation comes from something more global. Instead of working toward a summer body, ask yourself: wouldn’t it be better to have a healthy, strong, beautiful body all year long, throughout your entire life? Instead of aiming to lose a specific number of kilograms, focus on what you want to feel every day—energy, confidence, lightness, and pride in yourself.

Set goals that reflect who you want to become, not what you want to look like for a few weeks. Aim to keep your body young through movement and nutrition. Commit to building strength, not for someone else, but for your own comfort and wellbeing. Decide that you want to always love the reflection you see in the mirror, no matter the season.

The most important thing is to work out for yourself, not for a date on the calendar, not for a vacation, and not to impress anyone. Build your habits from a place of self-respect and self-love. When your goals are rooted in taking care of yourself, everything you achieve stays with you. It becomes part of your lifestyle, not a temporary project.