Goal. A word that can mean so much yet can be so daunting. For some, it means a point in various sports. For others, it's the endpoint of ambition; the final result. Goals offer guidance and drive to lives. Yet, many goals are not finished or seen through. So, what can you do to cross off those objectives on your list and be more productive in doing so?
In my previous blogs, I shared the importance of creating a consistent daily routine and the significance of sharpening your self-accountability. These two blogs open up the gateway for goal creation. I do briefly mention how to mix goals in the development of a daily routine but, don't take it further with HOW TO CREATE A GOAL. So, that is what I'll be focusing on with this post. Feel free to use it and mold my tips to meet your desires.
S.M.A.R.T method
The S.M.A.R.T method is a simple, guided outline that you can use in goal development. It breaks down each individual letter in SMART with a thorough explanation so there is no hesitation.
- S: Specific (significant, simple, sensible).
- M: Measurable (motivating, measurable).
- A: Achievable (attainable, agreed).
- R: Realistic (relevant, reasonable).
- T: Timely (time-based, time-sensitive).
- And to keep the goal-relevant and evolved, some experts have added ER (smartER).
- E: Evaluate (assess your progress, are you moving toward success? If you're not, why?).
- R: Review (do you still want this goal?).
Once you've looked over the meaning of SMART, it's time to break the words down even further with simple steps. In the book "Attitude Is Everything: If You Want to Receive Above and Beyond" by Paul J. Meyer, he breaks down the acronym so you're able to develop your goals. Thus, we'll start at S.
- Specific
- Your goal needs to be specific. If it's not straight forward, it'll be hard to focus and stay motivated with extra clutter. To help with this part, he writes to utilize the five "W's".
- Who is involved?
- What do I want to accomplish?
- Where is the goal located?
- Why is this goal important?
- Which resources are needed?
- Your goal needs to be specific. If it's not straight forward, it'll be hard to focus and stay motivated with extra clutter. To help with this part, he writes to utilize the five "W's".
- Measurable
- Your goal needs to measurable so your progress can be tracked and you can stay motivated. This helps you to meet your set deadline and focused. To assist, think about how much, how many, and how will I know when it's been met?
- Achievable
- The goals need to be realistic and attainable. However, it should challenge you in some way. Look at your financial situation and other constraints.
- Realistic
- Does this goal matter to you? Does it align with your other goals? Is this the right time? With this goal, at times you may need help so, making sure that you're able to receive assistance at any point but also have control over the goal is important.
- Timely
- You need to have an end to your goal, some deadline that you will finish it by. This will help you to prioritize everyday tasks with this longer goal. As you create your goal, figure out:
- When?
- What can I do today?
- What can I do six weeks from now?
- What can I do six months from now?
- You need to have an end to your goal, some deadline that you will finish it by. This will help you to prioritize everyday tasks with this longer goal. As you create your goal, figure out:
- Evaluate and Review
- As you're moving along, assess your progress. Are you moving in the direction that you desire? If you're heading in the opposite direction or not at all, what can you do to head in the correct direction? And finally, make sure this goal is one that you desire because you shouldn't waste energy on something that you do not desire.
After reading this blog, I hope you are able to find clarity in the creation of a goal. If you struggle with anxiety, start with a smaller goal or checkpoint. Build up smaller victories so you're more confident to pursue a larger goal.
~ Coach Karina- CF L1, USAW Sports Performance Coach, BS-Kinesiology
