How many times do you think about starting something new or try something for a day or two, only to see
your good intentions fizzle out fast? When we’re unclear about what we want and have no clear direction on
how to get there, we may be setting ourselves up for failure.
Wise up your goals by using this SMART goal-setting pattern.
Specific
Consider asking the primary W’s—who, what, when, where, which, and why—to help you start these goals.
By mapping out specifics, you can define the moment of success.
A vague plan is something like: “Start eating more fruit and vegetables.” It’s a great start, but a specific plan
would be better: “Eat five servings of fruit and vegetables daily.”
Measurable
You need to establish criteria for measuring your goal. If you consider your goal of eating five servings of fruits
and vegetables per day, consider asking yourself: What is a proper serving of fruits and vegetables?
Attainable
If your goal is attainable, you are more likely to be successful.
Consider the planning or preparation that goes into your goal. Again, if you were wanting to get more fruit and
vegetables into your daily routine, do you need to shop for more options, look up new recipes to try, or plan to
food prep portions you can easily grab every day?
Realistic
You should consider goals that are, for the most part, within your complete control.
If you choose a goal that is too lofty, you’re almost certainly setting yourself up to fail. For example,
it isn’t realistic to try to lose 50 pounds in only 30 days. Instead, aim for goals that involve habits that can be
changed—habits that support your weight-loss efforts.
Some examples? Pack a lunch to eliminate eating out. Initiate an exercise routine. Go to bed one hour earlier
to reduce stress and gain restfulness.
Timely
Goals that are carefully thought out will have a starting point and a stopping point. If you leave your goal
open-ended, do you ever really need to accomplish it? Keep in mind that it’s not possible to achieve all your
changes overnight. By establishing a deadline, you’re building a timeline to success.