I used to write resolutions; tired ideas like “lose weight,” “take better care of myself,” “get organized.” We have all started many a New Year with these kinds of resolutions, haven’t we? In 2008, we started using SMART goals for ourselves and for clients and I’m finding it useful to apply the principles to all facets of life. SMART is an acronym for Specific, Measurable, Actionable, Reasonable and Time-bound. This year, instead of resolutions I’m writing SMART goals for myself. Sure, they’re based on the same ideas I’ve resolved to change/fix/improve in my life, but the way they’re written says how I’m going to get there, by when and ascribes a specific reference point to let me know when that goal has been achieved. Smart, eh?
Here’s an example: previously, a resolution of mine would have been “lose weight.” The SMART goal for this resolution looks like this:
I will lose 15 lbs. by May 1, 2009 by walking and/or exercising three to five times a week, eliminating sugar from and adding more fiber to my diet and eating smaller portions.
Seems very possible to achieve, doesn’t it? And, I’ll know whether I’ve made it or not. If I’m not doing the Actionable items, I’ll know why I didn’t achieve the goal.
Try it – what resolutions can you rewrite as SMART goals?
