Charting Your Path: S.M.A.R.T. Goals for Success
Ever accomplish a goal and realize it was someone else’s? Or worse feel like you’re working hard, but not getting anywhere. Most of us have been there. And yet many of us are tired of hearing about goal-setting. It’s a necessary part of a fulfilling life and can be quite rewarding when we set S.M.A.R.T. goals.
So, what are S.M.A.R.T. Goals?
Yes, we want to create smart goals, but S.M.A.R.T. is actually an acronym that we can use to assist in setting personal goals and professional objectives. According to Mind Tools, S.M.A.R.T. goals can help “clarify your ideas, focus your efforts, use your time and resources productively, and increase your chances of achieving what you want in life.” While there are many variations, we find the following version most useful in setting actionable goals.
· S – Specific
· M – Measurable
· A – Achievable
· R – Relevant
· T – Time-bound
How to set S.M.A.R.T. Goals you’ll Actually Accomplish.
Find your Why?
If you’re feeling unfulfilled, it’s likely you don’t have a clear understanding of your “why.” There are several phases to your “why.”
First of course, is survival given we all have basic needs that lead to responsibilities like securing food and shelter for ourselves. The second phase, is usually status –How do we upgrade our lives. Third, is freedom to choose what, how, and when we do things. The last phase, is your purpose.
Begin with the end in mind. Another way to think about your “why” is, what is the legacy you want to leave?
Your why is what motivates you. It’s what makes your heart race. It’s something you would do for free. What do you want to spend more time doing? How can you add value to your life and the life of others? Do the answers to these questions have a common theme?
Take your time. Finding your “why” requires a bit of reflection and self-awareness.
Get specific.
Think about “How?” To be effective, your goals must be clear and well-defined. Most people only go as far as stating what they want to accomplish, but fail to understand how they will get there.
Make your goals measurable.
Next, define success. How will you know when you’ve met your goal? What measures will indicate or quantify your progress? For instance, if your goal is to grow your savings account, choose a savings total goal and identify what you will save each week. If you want to get a new job, choose your top positions and decide how many applications you will submit weekly.
Set Actionable goals.
Are your goals realistic and attainable?
Start high level, putting first things first. Set your lifetime goals, create a five-year plan, and then break it down into smaller annual, monthly, and weekly level tasks. Take time to identify your three most important tasks for each month, week, and day. Important tasks are those that will move you towards your goals. Try to limit your important tasks to three or less a day.
Next, schedule the task items by putting them in your calendar in advance (we like to schedule our tasks at least three months ahead). This will not only keep you focused and moving towards your goal, but it will also allow you to identify if your goals can be accomplished in the time you have set.
Focus on what YOU want.
It’s important to only set goals that you control the outcome. Ask yourself what do I really want and is it within my reach. And as always, be honest with yourself. Asking yourself these questions will ensure your goals are relevant to you and worth your effort.
Be sure to state your goal as a positive statement, focusing on what you want instead of what you don’t want.
Time-Bound.
Your goals need to have a deadline with a start, and an end date. When we set deadlines, we’re more likely to work with urgency and focus, ensuring we complete our tasks and accomplish our goals.
Make it visual.
Write your goals down, make a manifestation list, and or create a vision board that includes your detailed plan. Using visual tools like vision boards can help you design and achieve your dream lifestyle.
Visual tools engage the creative right-side of your brain and allow you to visualize new opportunities. Visual tools also help produce a positive mindset to encourage you to reach your goals. Place your vision where you will frequently see it like your desktop/screensavor, bedside, or bathroom mirror.
Stay the course.
Stay committed. Regularly review, edit, and update your S.M.A.R.T. goals. Rededicate to your goals at the start of EACH week. Read your manifestation list aloud, stare at your vision board, and embody the feelings of obtaining your goals. Jump around like your won the lottery. Play victorious music. Watch the magic you make!
Sharpen the saw.
If you make a misstep, don’t fret. Simply identify the lesson and apply it to your updated goals plan. By “sharpening your saw” as you go, you will ensure continuous improvement and renewal in your progress.
Celebrate every win.
When we celebrate every win big or small, we gain momentum. Momentum reminds you that you’re making progress and progress will keep you motivated!
CONCLUSION
Setting S.M.A.R.T. goals is a surefire way to accomplish your most challenging ambitions. Don’t’ forget you’re always allowed to experiment and pivot directions if you decide. That’s ok; you make your own rules when it comes to your goals and life path. Most importantly, always take time to enjoy the journey of life, reflect on how far you’ve come, and enjoy where you are.
