A goal without a plan is no goal at all.
What Are S.M.A.R.T. Goals?
S.M.A.R.T. Goals are goals that are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-Based. They have been used very effectively in business for the past 50 years. These goals are also effective in helping you change your health behaviors. By using this form of goals you can control your progress toward attaining those goals. You will be able to set benchmarks along the way to evaluate your progress and will know when you have achieved them. These goals provide a framework of accountability and help guide your progress towards successfully achieving them.
A simple goal “I want to lose weight” is an admirable goal. However, in a year, you may still be saying, “I want to lose weight.” Instead, set a S.M.A.R.T. goal which may look like this, “I want to lose 10 pounds by Christmas (which is in four months).” This goal is specific and measurable by saying you want to lose 10 pounds. It is attainable to lose 10 pounds in 16 weeks. If you want to be healthier by losing weight, then it certainly is relevant. And by setting a date, it is time-based.
December 25th
The Bottom Line
Write out a set of S.M.A.R.T. goals and commit to them. Being committed to a goal makes it much more likely that you will achieve it.