Let me tell you a little bit about what prompted me to write this goal setting series. Way back in the olden days (lol) when I first started setting goals, I became so overwhelmed with the whole process. Where to start, why, what goals to choose, how to break them down, track them, and how to evaluate my progress.
These are just some of the things that created stumbling blocks to setting my goals. So, over the years I created little systems for myself to break it all down and make it a little easier for me to plan out.
If you haven’t already checked it out, make sure you read last weeks post where I went over why setting goals is important.
Today we will talk about SMARTER goals. Making your goals SMARTER will set you up with goals that are easily attainable, and that you will be less likely to quit.
What are SMARTER goals?
There are many different variations of SMART and SMARTER goals out there. This is just the version I have found the most success with. Smarter Goals are:
S = Specific
The more specific the goal the better. What exactly do you want to achieve with the goal you’re setting? An example of a vague goal would be “I want to lose weight.” This goal would be difficult to determine when or if you’ve accomplished it. How much weight do you want to lose and by when? I want to lose _____ pounds by_____. This is a specific goal that will make it easy to determine the steps you need to take to achieve it.
M = Measurable
I want to lose 20 pounds this year is a measurable goal. This goal can be broken down into smaller goals. What this does is give you the ability to measure your progress at different points throughout the year. It helps to keep you motivated and on track.
A = Achievable
Make sure your goal is easy enough to complete but also difficult enough to challenge you. If it is too difficult it will discourage you quickly when you don’t see enough progress. Determine all the factors involved in attaining the goal. Time, energy, and cost involved in completing your goal are things to think about.
R = Realistic
Make sure the goal you choose is something you have the talent, time, money, and energy to accomplish. Reading 10 books a day is not a realistic goal.
Even reading 1 book a day is not realistic for most of us (although I know a couple of people who do). Pick something you know you can accomplish.
T = Timely
Make sure you have deadlines for your goals. Without deadlines you have no way of knowing when your goal is complete. If your goal is too large to accomplish in 1 year, make it a 5-year or even a 10-year goal. Then set smaller yearly goals to help you accomplish it.
E = Evaluate
It’s important to occasionally evaluate your goals. If something isn’t working do you need to make modifications or changes? You may find that there may be some things you can add to or take away from your goal action plan that may make it more achievable. Don’t be afraid to do this.
R = Record and review
Record and track your progress. Many times, we don’t see the progress we’re making. If you have your goals written down and are tracking your progress it can help you stay motivated to continue. You will also see any problem areas more quickly and be able to make any adjustments needed.
Making sure that each of the goals you choose are SMARTER goals will set you on the path for success.
Stay tuned next week for Part 3 of The Goal Setting Series where you will learn how to choose your goals.