How to Set S.M.A.R.T Goals for lasting Change

Many of us follow the tradition of setting resolutions for the New Year, but the truth is, many of our resolutions and goals are similar.

So why can some people achieve their goals more consistently than others? While there are a variety of reasons, one thing I have discovered is that making S.M.A.R.T goals will significantly increase your chances of achieving your goals.

S.M.A.R.T Goal Setting: 101

Before diving into goal setting 101, I’ll first clarify that S.M.A.R.T. is an acronym for;

S – Specific
M – Measurable
A – Action oriented
R – Realistic
T – Timely

Here are a few tips on how you can implement S.M.A.R.T. goals this year!

1. Be Specific
Get clear on exactly what you want to achieve. The more specific you are, the greater the chance of actually reaching the goals. Be sure the goals you set are important to YOU and the reward from working towards the goal is motivating to you. Be honest with yourself and avoid setting a goal just to make other people happy.

Here are a few questions you can ask yourself as you try to get clear on your goals:

• What do I want to achieve?
• Why is this goal important to me?
• Is this goal realistic?
• Who will support me in achieving this goal?
• What do I need to prepare for success so I can achieve this goal?
• How will I achieve this goal?
• When will I work on achieving this goal?

2. Make It Measurable
After you have gotten clear on what you are working on, the next step is to make it measurable. S.M.A.R.T. goals will have a system and plan for tracking progress and checking in with yourself if you are on track to achieve the goal you set. How can you break down your goal into something measurable?

Numbers are easy to track as you can monitor the change, however, what if your goal is beyond a number?

Keeping a journal to track and monitor habits can be a great way to measure and monitor your progress.

3. Is the goal listed as a behavior?
Instead of listing the outcome you want (such as pounds lost), list what action you will take?

You have more control on taking an action than a number on the scale.

4. Is it Realistic?
Before going any further, make sure the goal you are setting is actually attainable. It is important that you really look into and prepare for the amount of time, effort and other costs that your goal may require.

All goals take a commitment and to ensure your success it is essential to answer the question “Is my goal attainable?”

5. Set a Timeline
The final step in creating S.M.A.R.T goals is to create a timeline of when and how you will achieve this goal. Create a plan and make a deadline. Make sure it is realistic, flexible and attainable, but also have a deadline.

Your deadline will help you stay focused and on a task in achieving that goal!

What S.M.A.R.T goal will you be setting to ensure your reach your goals in 2019? We are discussing 2019 goals on my Facebook page, join us!