How to Set & Follow Your Goals
Goal setting is a powerful method for seeing your ideal future and inspiring yourself to make that vision a reality. Consider what you want to do first, and then commit to it. Set SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound) goals that inspire you and write them down to make them feel more real. Then determine the steps you need to take to achieve your objective and tick them off while keeping the SMART framework in mind.
Make Them Specific
A goal must be specific to be effective. The more detailed your plan, the better you’ll grasp the necessary steps.
Make Them Measurable
Setting milestones will allow you to re-evaluate and adjust as needed. This makes measuring progress and determining when you’ve reached the finish line easy.
Make Them Achievable
This is the stage at which you give yourself a critical reality check. Make sure your goals and aspirations are realistic. Truthfully ask yourself: is this something I can accomplish?
Make Them Relevant
Consider whether the goals you set for yourself are relevant. Each of your objectives should be consistent with your broader long-term objectives. You should reconsider if a plan does not contribute to your overall aim for your future.
Make Them Time Bound
Each of your objectives should be consistent with your broader long-term goals and should have a time limit to them to keep you focused. You should reconsider your plan if it does not contribute to your future aspirations.
The SMART goal framework establishes boundaries and defines the steps you’ll need to take, the resources necessary to get there, and milestones that signal progress along the way. You are more likely to attain your objective efficiently and effectively if you set SMART goals.