A goal without a plan is just a wish

It's that time of year again.  Where many of us "commit" to a new year resolution.  Gyms will be heaving with new members and regular gym goers will have to wait till the end of January before the burst of enthusiasm disappears and they can get back to training with no queues.  Signing up for a gym means nothing if you don't have a meaningful goal and a plan.  The key is putting in place controls that make sure you are following the plan and hitting the milestones.
For me, I haven't made a new year resolution. My goals were set months ago and the plan with controls was put in place.  Ironman Frankfurt is 181 days away and my last thought before I go to bed is what my plan is for the following day and my first thought in the morning I have to do and how it fits with my personal and work life - this point was built into the plan however things don't always work out the way they were planned.
During the holidays I have enjoyed time with my family and time training with the ability to relax and recover afterwards.  All goals were met over the festive period including a double training session on new years day!  The running miles are starting to build and I've had 2 sessions at Chatelherault where I've run 2 consequitive laps (15km) in a reasonably fast time which I am happy with.  With the Strathaven half marathon in February the training mileage will increase.
After months cycling on my turbo trainer today I got out for a solo ride on the roads for 2 hour 15 minutes which was refreshing!  It was windy, the roads were in terrible condition but it was good to be out again.  I managed to get home just before the rain started so that was a bonus.  The bikes been cleaned and set up again for my turbo sessions this week.
So if you've set a new year resolution or target remember a goal without a plan is just a wish.  All the best for 2016 - go make it an amazing year!