Setting S.M.A.R.T. Goals 101

Want to know the secret to achieving your goals and New Year’s Resolutions? It’s to make them S.M.A.R.T.! You can apply this method for setting goals in any aspect of your life. Get out a pen and piece of paper and use these questions to fill out your own S.M.A.R.T. goal(s). 

Initial Goal – What goal do you want to accomplish in 2022?

S– Specific

When you set a goal for yourself, it is important to be specific about what you want to accomplish. This should answer what you want to do, when, where, why, and/or how. 

Example: I want to lower my blood pressure.

What exactly do you want to accomplish? Who is included in this goal? Why is this a goal for you? When, where, and how?

 

M– Measurable

Making a goal measurable means that you have a numerical way to track its progress. What metrics can you use to determine if you are getting closer to your goal?

Example: I will monitor my blood pressure daily and watch for any changes.

How can you track and measure your progress in achieving this goal? How will you know when you’ve achieved it?

 

A– Achievable

How can you accomplish this goal? What do you have to do to achieve it? Do you already have the skills to achieve this goal, and if not, how can you gain these skills? You want to set goals you know are possible to achieve with a bit of discipline and hard work. 

Example: I want to lower my blood pressure by 10 points. I know if I eat more fresh fruits and vegetables, regularly check in with my RN, and educate myself on hypertension and health—I can reach this goal!

Do you have all you need to achieve your goal? If not, are you able to get what you need? What’s your motivation behind achieving this goal?

 

R– Relevant

Relevance refers to the relationship between what you are doing and what is important to you. Does this goal align with your life? How important is it that you achieve this goal? 

Example: If you have chronic high blood pressure, you are at risk for several other health conditions. Setting a goal of lowering your blood pressure would then be considered relevant to your current health state. Ask yourself, “what is my why, or reason for wanting to accomplish this?”

Why are you setting this goal? How is it important or relevant to your life at this moment?

 

T– Time-Oriented

Give yourself a realistic timeframe for you to achieve your goal. Having a target date can help create a sense of urgency. 

Example: I want to lower my blood pressure by 10 points in 3 months.

What is your deadline for achieving this goal? Is the time frame realistic?

With 2022 coming up, we encourage you to set goals for yourself. Be sure to make them S.M.A.R.T. goal!