Are Our Goals SMART?

Goal setting! 

The principle of setting goals is everywhere, it's even  safe to say our society is inundated with this message. Everywhere from diet and fitness, to our personal finances, to creating a better life, the message is...it all begins with the simple step of goal setting!  So if this is so easy and so clearly present in our everyday repertoires, then why do we all fail at our goals, and often so quickly??? Where is the roadblock is this simple message???

While we all commit to setting goals and are eager to jump in & start making changes, research confirms the way we develop our goals, actually sets us up for failure more times than not.

Use this quick acronym to better help achieve your goals. 

Ask Yourself

Specific = Set specific, clearly defined goals. Ask yourself -- Can this goal be broken down any further into simpler steps? Is this goal clearly defined with no questions left unanswered about it?

Measurable = How will you know when you are making progress? What are your markers?
Attainable = Is this a realistic and achieveable goal in the time frame you have outlined?
Relevant = Is this a goal you are motivated to work for? Why is this goal important in your life?
Timed = What are your achievement markers? When do you hope to have this goal achieved by? What are your time frames for the small steps towards the larger goal?

Remember that goal setting is a process necessary for change -- don't neglect this step. In order to move sucessfully into an action stage, a solid plan is needed! Remember that the best plans account for the unexpected and for personal triggers or roadblocks.  

I recommend spending 30 minutes - 1 hour planning for every week allotted on your goal. For example if your goal is to meditate 30 minutes 5 days a week for 4 weeks. How would you break that goal down into SMART; to adequately do this, you should spend about 1 week prior to a start date -dedicating 2-4 hours concrete planning time for one goal.

Any troubles developing a SMART goal, leave a comment and I'll help you transform your goals.

Until Next Time ~ Be Well