How to Make SMART Goals
When creating goals, sometimes we just make ones that we do follow through on. Sometimes it is because we lose motivation, it seems to hard, or it’s just not working the way we thought it would. One way to avoid these pitfalls is by creating SMART goals. Here is a brief explanation of how to create smart goals with examples:
Specific- When we create goals, they need to be narrow and specific in order to figure out how you are going to follow through on your goal. Instead of something vague, try to ask yourself what is one thing I actually want to work on that will make a positive impact?
For example, if your goal is to be better at being on time. What exactly does that mean? It could mean a lot of things and that makes it hard to know where to go. So instead, we can make a more specific goal of saying I am going to start setting timers 10 minutes before I have to leave and when I need to leave.
Measurable- So great, now you have a specific goal to aim at but how will you know that you are doing a good job? Well, it needs to be something that we can actually measure. This can be as easy as did I do it (yes or no) or it is sometimes more specific like counting calories to eat less.
For example, keeping with our current goal, you could ask yourself if you have actually been setting the timers. If you have, then yay! If not, the goal is not being met and something needs to be adjusted- either the goal or action.
Achievable- Sometimes we can get a little over-eager and that can create difficulty in achieving our goals because they are simply not attainable. So, we need to set realistic expectations in order to make sure we are able to do whatever we set out to do.
For example, never being late again is probably not going to happen if that is something you currently struggle with. So doing something like setting timers will help you get one set closer to not being late as frequently and is more achievable than suddenly deciding you won’t be late again.
Relevant- Goals also need to align with what your long-term desires are and who you are. If you set a goal to do something that does not align with your values, you will likely struggle in meeting that goal. So, think about what your long-term goals are and make your SMART goals steps towards where you want to go.
For example, if you are trying to be on time on a more regular basis as your long-term goal (can’t do that overnight), then setting regular timers to help with getting out of the door on time is a step in the right direction.
Time-Based- Goals need a realistic time deadline. Many times this deadline is a check-in point to figure out if something needs to be adjusted or if we are ready to take another step in the relevant direction. Sometimes the goal has a reason tied to it where it needs to be achieved by a certain time (ex: getting taxes done prior to the deadline). They also need to be realistic. If there is no way to achieve the goal or make good progress, it can be demotivating to have an unrealistic deadline. Again, check out our blog on realistic expectations.
For example, I am going to set timers 10 minutes before I have to leave for work everyday and also for when I need to walk out of the door for two weeks. At the two week mark, you can check in to see if you have actually been using the timers to help you get to places on time. If so, then you can keep doing it until it becomes a habit. Then, they can add another short-term goal that will help. If not, then maybe you need to make it easier (like reoccurring timers), shift to using just one timer and snooze it, or trying another method that you may be more achievable for you.
If you need help with creating SMART goals or want help getting your mental health where you want it to be, we want to help you! To get your FREE 15 minute consultation, you can reach out on our contact page or call us.