Setting Diabetes Management Goals for the Year Ahead

Lindsay Cohen, RDN

Credit: Mama-Betes

When you live with diabetes, you may feel like you are constantly juggling medications, blood sugars and food choices. It’s a lot! This is where setting goals comes in. Setting goals regarding diabetes management isn’t just about perfect blood sugar numbers. It’s about finding a realistic and sustainable plan that prioritizes your overall well-being.

But where do you even begin? Continue reading to learn how to start setting goals for your diabetes journey.

Reflecting and Brainstorming

The first steps in goal setting are reflection and brainstorming. What were your successes and challenges in managing your diabetes over the past year?

Spend some time reviewing your blood sugar logs, hemoglobin A1c results and any notes from doctor’s visits. Think about what you were proud of and what you wish you had done differently. Honestly assess your current habits regarding healthy eating, exercise, taking your medications, managing stress and sleep.

This should give you some ideas of beneficial goals for getting started.

Setting SMART Goals

SMART goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound goals.

Specific: Clearly define what you want to achieve (e.g., reduce A1c by 1%).

Measurable: Track progress using quantifiable metrics (e.g., walking for 30 minutes five days a week).

Achievable: Set goals that are challenging yet attainable.

Relevant: Choose goals that align with your overall health priorities.

Time-bound: Establish a time frame for achieving your goals (e.g., by the end of May or within the next six months).

Examples of SMART Goals

Examples of SMART goals related to diabetes management might be the following:

I will fill half my plate with non-starchy vegetables at lunch and dinner over the next two weeks.

I will set alarms and use a pill organizer in a visible location to serve as reminders to take my medications 100% of the time over the next three months.

Instead of scrolling on my phone, I will engage in mindfulness meditation using a meditation app to help reduce stress for 10 minutes each day over the next two weeks.

The Secret to Staying Motivated

Having a support system, celebrating successes, adjusting goals as needed and focusing on progress are all helpful strategies for staying motivated.

Connect with Others

You don’t have to do it alone! Connecting with others who understand the challenges of diabetes can be incredibly empowering. Consider joining a support group (online or in person) where you can share experiences, exchange tips and find encouragement. It’s also OK to lean on your loved ones for support and understanding.

Celebrate Successes

Every win, no matter how big or small, deserves to be celebrated! Reward yourself by buying a new book, taking a relaxing bath or going out for a fun outing with friends. These little celebrations help reinforce your progress and keep you motivated.

Don’t Be Afraid to Adjust Goals

Life is unpredictable. Getting sick, traveling, holidays or stressful life events can get in the way. The key is to be flexible and adapt your goals as needed. Don’t beat yourself up if you must adjust a goal or take a temporary step back. What matters is that you keep moving forward, even at a slower pace.

Focus on Progress, Not Perfection

Remember, managing diabetes will involve ups and downs. Try not to get discouraged by setbacks or when things don’t go as planned. Instead, focus on the big picture and your overall progress.

By setting SMART goals, you can take your health and well-being into your own hands. Remember, it’s not about being perfect. It’s about taking baby steps and making sustainable changes that improve your quality of life.

Start small, connect with others, celebrate your wins and don’t be afraid to adjust your goals as needed along the way!