Setting S.M.A.R.T. Goals

If you're tired of setting goals and not achieving them, then maybe you need to set SMART Goals.

SMART is simply an acronym that stands for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timely.

I will explain each one in detail so next time you set a goal, you will be SMART about it.

Specific

The more specific your goal is, the more likely you will achieve them. Why? Because it shows that your vision is clear. You know exactly what you want.

Unclear goals lack focus.

Decide exactly what you want to achieve. Don't just say I want to lose weight. Write down exactly how many pounds you want to lose.

This way you'll know when you've accomplished your goal.

Measurable

How will you know how far along you are if you can't track your progress? Making your goal measurable can be done by breaking it down into smaller goals.

If your goal is to lose 20 pounds in 4 months, how much will you need to lose every week?

Doing this will help you measure your progress so you can stay on track and make adjustments if necessary.

Attainable

Do you have the resources to reach your goal?

For example, How attainable is your goal if you want to lose weight and your house is filled with nothing but fatty foods?

Make sure you have the skills and resources to reach your goal.

Realistic

Goals take time to achieve so make sure you you know how long it will take you. You can't expect to lose weight overnight. You have to work at it.

Find out typical results and how weight is lost before you set a goal for yourself. How much less will you need to eat? How much exercise will you need? Find out all that facts.

Also, realistic goals have a lot to do with what you believe. It can be possible to lost 20 pounds in one month. But if you don't really believe it in your heart that you can do it, then don't set that goal for yourself.

Set goals you believe you can accomplish.

Timely

How long will your goal take you to accomplish? You always need a time limit. This will help you stay on track and measure your progress.

It will also work as a motivation. When there isn't a time limit, you practically have forever to achieve your goal.

When you do set a deadline, then there's a sense of urgency. It will make you want to get up and actually do things since you have to be done at a certain time.

It will help you overcome procrastination.

When setting a deadline, don't set something you know you can't finish. Give yourself a little bit of cushion just to be on the safe side. If you finish early, you'll be happy and more motivated. If you finish late however, things can quickly turn around and be hectic. You might now even want to finish your goal.