Setting S.M.A.R.T. Goals For The New Year

Setting S.M.A.R.T

Setting S.M.A.R.T. Goals For The New Year

2010 brought with it many unexpected surprises. There were many world events that took place as well as local events that were historic. Here we are in the final month of 2010 so its time to set some new year's resolutions. I would rather see them termed as goals because we are more motivated by goals. Resolutions do not have deadlines. Goals do.

Many of us have heard of S.M.A.R.T. goals but how many of us actually use this formula when goal setting? Let's break it down:

S = Specific: What is it you really want? What does it look like? You should get a clear picture in your head as detailed as possible then transfer it to paper to make it specific.

M = Measurable: A good goal is should be measurable or how else will you know if you have arrived. For example, if you set a goal to exercise 3 day per week, you will know if you are off track if you only exercise only 1 day per week. That is a measurable goal.

A = Action: Action means your goals should be action oriented. Action means movement. You have to build action steps into your goals. Your goals should inspire you to move.

R = Realistic: Using our exercise example above, is it realistic to assume you are going to exercise 5 days a week if you have not exercised at least one day a week consistently? I do not think so. Setting goals that are realistic means your goals will make you stretch. They are attainable but not unreachable. 3 times a week would be more realistic.

T = Timely: This is one of the major points that set goals apart from resolutions. Time activating your goals means to set a deadline for when you want to see the goal accomplished. You may set a goal to exercise 3 times a week and you want to have that goal completed by the end of January.

The 80/20 Rule Applies To Goal Setters

Most people do not set goals. It is rumored only 20% of the population sets written goals. It is no coincidence either that most of the people who set goals are the most successful as well.

One thing people tend to forget is you can always change your goals. You should keep adjusting your goals until you get the outcome you desire. Remember, they are your goals and no one else's.

If you have not started thinking about how you want 2011 to work out for you, then I suggest you use this month of December to set aside some quality time to plan the upcoming year out. It would be time well spent!

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