SMART Goals

It’s easy to get caught up in a new exciting plan or have a hazy sense of what we’re trying to achieve, but if we want to get something done, we benefit from clarity.

The SMART goal framework provides an opportunity to test out whether a goal makes sense or if it needs some refinement.

SMART stands for:

• Specific – Define exactly what you want to accomplish.

• Measurable – Identify how you will track progress.

• Achievable – Choose goals that are realistic for your current circumstances.

• Relevant – Make sure the goal connects to what truly matters to you.

• Time-bound – Set a clear deadline or timeframe.

For example, instead of “I’ll get more organized,” a SMART goal might be: “I’ll spend 15 minutes at the end of each workday clearing my desk.”

Instead of “Tomorrow I’m going to catch up on everything I owe my boss and clean my entire apartment and finally start exercising!”, try for “Tomorrow I’m going to outline the work I have due and schedule out how I can complete it over the next week.” Then separately set goals around home maintenance and exercise that are also specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.

SMART goals can give structure to change, build momentum through small wins, and help you see progress more clearly.

Feel free to reach out with questions or discuss further.

Downloadable worksheet