This is a great time of the year to plan some new goals. We are coming off of summer vacation, getting back into new routines, and perhaps needing a little extra motivation. Goals, especially bright, shiny new goals, can be extremely motivating! There is a great system for goal planning that can make the daunting task a lot easier. Go grab a piece of paper and a pencil and meet me back here for some new goal planning.
S.M.A.R.T. Goals
The SMART goal method is a very effective way at writing out and setting obtainable goals. It's simply an acronym for 5 qualities your goals should have.
S- Specific: Be specific about what you want to accomplish. General goals are harder to grasp. For example, 'I want to run more' is very general. However, 'I want to complete a 10k in 3 months, so I will run 4 days a week' is easily accomplished because of the specifics.
M- Measurable: When you measure your progress, you stay on track, reach your target dates, and experience the elation of achievement that pushes you to keep going to reach your goal. Ask these questions to determine if your goal is measurable: How much? How many? How will I know when it's completed?
A- Attainable: This is a big one. Many a human being has set a goal far too unattainable and give up completely when they fall short of reaching their goal. Don't get me wrong, it's great to have a "larger picture" goal, but break it into smaller, attainable goals. Perhaps you want to complete a triathlon. You wouldn't put a goal of training for and completing it in 3 months on that. Especially if this is your first one. Break that into smaller goals that can be achieved on your way to accomplishing that larger goal! Is your goal to lose 50 pounds? Great, but break it down into smaller weekly goals. Now your goal is to lose 2-3 pounds a week, working toward that 50 pound loss!
R- Recorded or Relevant: Make sure those goals are written down and relevant to where you are in your journey. If you have just started running, you don't want to do a marathon just yet. Start where you are, write down your thoughts and feelings, and keep going!
T- Timely: Simply put, when do you want to complete this goal by? Give yourself a date. This will push you toward your goal and keep you motivated. Keep in the mind your goal needs to be attainable and relevant when setting a deadline to meet your new goal or goals.
Start making new goals today! Share some new goals you've made in the comments section. We'd love to cheer you on!
Natalie Lurie
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