Tip Not Reasonable Reasonable Keep your goals short-term to hold yourself accountable. “Write a novel this year.” “Write 5 pages each day.” Keep physical limitations in mind. “Lose 30 pounds by the end of the month.” “Do 30 minutes of cardio and eat four servings of vegetables every day.” Be specific. “Get in shape.” “Go to the gym three times a week and cook healthy meals four times a week.” Make sure you’re willing to sacrifice time doing other things in pursuit of the goal. “Go back to school and get a degree.” → but you’re not willing to give up nights and weekends to do homework. “Apply for 3 scholarships to help pay to go back to school.” → so you can take a part-time job instead of full-time and have more free time on weekends.