S.M.A.R.T. Goals

When I begin coaching new clients, we always set up S.M.A.R.T. goals. SMART goals give us a roadmap for what we are going to do, and why. When we stick to the SMART goal process, our goals become much more achievable.

What are SMART goals and are your goals SMART?

SMART is an acronym for: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-bound. When we dial in all of these components, we are more likely to get where we want to go. Without the implementation of the SMART method, goals become more like dreams or wishes, decreasing the likelihood that they come to fruition.

So, let’s look at all of the components.

First of all, your goal must be SPECIFIC. What EXACTLY is it you are trying to accomplish? Be precise. We need to dial in all of the details so it is very clear we know what we want. For example, instead of saying “I want to lose weight,” you would say “I want to lose 35 pounds.”

You need to ask yourself if this goal is MEASURABLE. How will you be able to track your progress and how will you know when you have met the goal? For example, in my training business I often have women tell me they want to get toned. What does that even mean? Your idea of toned and my idea of toned are probably different. There needs to be some sort of measure. A measurable goal in this setting would be, “I want to decrease my body fat to 22%.”

Next, we decide if this goal is ATTAINABLE. Is this something that you can actually do? Is it reasonable and realistic? Are you capable? Are you willing to do what it takes? If so, how are you going to make it happen? Together, we create a roadmap. This is the fun part…strategizing how to make your dreams come true.

You also need to ask yourself, is this goal RELEVANT to your life right now? Why does it matter? The “why” in achieving a goal is critical because it helps drive emotion and action. Emotion and action lead directly to our result. Future goals should align with who you are trying to become in life, and be part of the grander plan. Random efforts, unattached to your larger purpose are a distraction and should be abandoned.

Finally, your goals should be TIME BOUND. When will you start, and when will you finish? The best goals have a beginning and an end. This is how we stay consistent and gauge our progress. When one goal ends another goal that is related to the original goal may begin, especially when we break big goals down into smaller goals. For example, I may have a client who wants to lose 50 pounds. We may break this goal down into multiple smaller goals – like 5 to 10 pounds at a time – so it doesn’t seem as overwhelming. Here is an example: Between October 1st and the end of the year, I’m going to lose 10 pounds.” Each goal always has a target end date.

SMART GOALS are clear, concise and meaningful.

Can you plug your current goal into this format? If not, it may be worth exploring. Tightening up the details of what you are trying to do will increase your chances of success.

One of the best ways to achieve your dreams is to set up SMART GOALS. I can help you do this. I love the process of seeing my clients evolve from the start of their goal through each step and all the way to the finish line. I can teach you strategies for staying on track and for following through. Contact me today to get started.