Aspects of Adam

Embracing my neurodiversity, to get ahead in life!

Goals journal

S.M.A.R.T Goals

What Are SMART Goals?

SMART is a way to set goals that are easier to understand and follow. It helps you stay focused and know exactly what you want to do. SMART stands for:

  • Specific: Be clear about what you want to do.
  • Measurable: Make sure you can track your progress.
  • Achievable: Set a goal that you can realistically reach.
  • Relevant: Make sure it matters to you.
  • Time-bound: Set a deadline to stay on track.

Think of it as a “goal recipe” to help you get what you want without feeling overwhelmed!

How to Use SMART Goals

1. Specific: Be Clear and Detailed

A goal needs to be precise so you know exactly what you’re working toward. Vague goals can make it hard to know where to start.

Ask Yourself:

  • What do I want to accomplish?
  • Why is this goal important to me?
  • Who is involved?
  • Where will it happen?

Example (Losing Weight):

  • Vague: “I want to lose weight.”
  • Specific: “I want to lose 10 pounds by exercising 5 days a week and eating more vegetables.”

2. Measurable: Track Your Progress

A measurable goal helps you see how far you’ve come and how far you still need to go. It gives you a way to check if you’re on track.

Ask Yourself:

  • How will I know I’ve achieved my goal?
  • What milestones can I track along the way?
  • Can I use numbers, percentages, or time to measure progress?

Example (Saving Money):

  • Vague: “I want to save money.”
  • Measurable: “I’ll save £100 a month and track my savings every week to reach £1,000 in 10 months.”

3. Achievable: Set a Realistic Target

Your goal should stretch you but still be possible. If it’s too hard, you might get discouraged. If it’s too easy, it won’t feel rewarding.

Ask Yourself:

  • Do I have the resources, skills, and time to achieve this?
  • If not, how can I get what I need?
  • Is this goal realistic given my current situation?

Example (Starting Graphic Design):

  • Unrealistic: “I’ll master graphic design and launch a store in a week.”
  • Achievable: “I’ll create three designs in one month by using online tools and tutorials.”

4. Relevant: Make Sure It Matters to You

Your goal should align with your values, priorities, and bigger dreams. If it doesn’t feel meaningful, it’s harder to stay motivated.

Ask Yourself:

  • Why does this goal matter to me?
  • How does it help me achieve something bigger?
  • Is this the right time to focus on this goal?

Example (Losing Weight):

  • Irrelevant: “I want to lose weight because someone told me to.”
  • Relevant: “I want to feel healthier, have more energy, and lower my risk of illness.”

5. Time-bound: Set a Deadline

A deadline creates urgency and helps you prioritize. Without a clear time frame, it’s easy to procrastinate or lose focus.

Ask Yourself:

  • When do I want to achieve this goal?
  • Are there smaller deadlines along the way?
  • Is this time frame realistic?

Example (Saving Money):

  • No Deadline: “I want to save £1,000.”
  • Time-bound: “I’ll save £1,000 in 10 months by putting aside £100 each month.”

How SMART Goals Work Together

Let’s look at a full SMART goal example to see how all the pieces fit:

Goal: “I want to lose 10 pounds in 10 weeks by exercising 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week, and replacing sugary snacks with fruit.”

  • Specific: Lose 10 pounds by exercising and eating better.
  • Measurable: Track weight weekly and keep a food journal.
  • Achievable: 1–2 pounds per week is a healthy and realistic target.
  • Relevant: The goal aligns with my desire to be healthier and feel more confident.
  • Time-bound: The deadline is 10 weeks, with weekly check-ins.

Why SMART Goals Work

  • Clarity: You know exactly what you’re working toward.
  • Motivation: Seeing progress (even small wins) keeps you going.
  • Focus: Helps you avoid distractions and stay on track.
  • Efficiency: Deadlines and tracking prevent wasted effort.

Tips for Success

  1. Start Small: It’s okay to make tiny goals to build momentum.
  2. Write It Down: Keeping your goals visible reinforces commitment.
  3. Adjust as Needed: Life happens! Reassess your goal if things change.
  4. Celebrate Wins: Reward yourself when you hit milestones, no matter how small.

By following these steps, you can create a roadmap to achieve almost anything!