What are SMART goals?
SMART goals are like a roadmap for what you want to achieve. They help you turn your wishes and dreams into a plan you can actually follow!
| SMART Criteria | Explanation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Specific | The goal is clearly defined, focused, and leaves no room for misinterpretation. | Instead of: "Get in shape" Try: "Run a 5k in under 30 minutes." |
| Measurable | The goal has quantifiable metrics for tracking progress and success. | Instead of: "Eat healthier" Try: "Eat 3 servings of vegetables and 2 servings of fruit per day." |
| Achievable | The goal is challenging yet realistic based on current resources, capabilities, and constraints. | Instead of: "Lose 50 pounds in a month" Try: "Lose 1-2 pounds per week consistently." |
| Relevant | The goal aligns with your overall personal or professional objectives. | Instead of: "Learn to play the saxophone Try (for a career goal): "Improve my public speaking skills." |
| Time-bound | The goal has a specific deadline or timeframe for completion. | Instead of: "Write a book someday" Try: "Complete the first draft of my novel by December 31st." |
Specific: What exactly do you want to do? Don't say "get better at soccer," say "score 5 more goals this season."
Measurable: How will you know when you've reached your goal? Numbers help! Instead of "eat healthy," try "eat 3 servings of vegetables each day."
Achievable: Can you really do this? Be honest with yourself; set goals that challenge you but aren't impossible.
Relevant: Does this goal matter to you? Make sure it fits with your bigger dreams.
Time-bound: When do you want to achieve this by? Having a deadline keeps you motivated.
Example of a SMART goal:
Instead of: "I want to learn an instrument."
Try: "I will learn to play 5 songs on the guitar by the end of the year."
Clear direction: Like a GPS, SMART goals show you exactly where to go.
Motivation: Small, clear goals are way less scary than big blurry ones. Track your progress: Seeing how far you've come will keep you going. Let's get SMART about your goals!