Most of us have heard about how important it is to have goals in life – and that is the truth. It is absolutely essential for every area of life. But what few people know is how to actually go about achieving those goals. Before we can even hope to achieve any goal there are some important steps to follow.
It all starts with setting SMART goals.
What are SMART goals? Well, it is a system for setting goals that has been known to yield great success for many people who have implemented this system. And the great thing about it is that it works in any area of life: spiritual, personal, business – you name it. It works! (if done correctly – of course)
SMART goals are goals that are:
Specific – you have to be as specific as you can about what it is that you want and then write down your goals. The more specific you can be, the better. If you can’t be specific, then perhaps you need to take a step back and gain clarity first. If you are unclear about what it is that you want, then how are you going to achieve it?
Measurable – Show me the numbers! Yes, that is how you need to think when it comes to this step. How are you going to know if you’ve achieved the goal if you can’t measure it. It’s one thing to say, “I want to save money”. You can then save $1 and you would have achieved your goal, right? $1 is some money saved! But it is another thing to say: “I will save $1000”. Can you see the difference it makes?
Attainable – Your goal must be challenging enough to push you out of your comfort zone and make you grow, but it should never be unrealistic and completely unattainable. There is a fine line between the two.
Relevant – Your goal should always line up with who you are at your core and what your vision is for your life. Live your own life, there’s no point in trying to achieve goals that are not in line with your core value system. Stay in your lane! Otherwise you will be frustrated and throw in the towel, because there will be a disconnect.
Time – based – Simply put: Put a deadline to it. You can’t be studying to become a lawyer for the rest of your life or wanting to start a business for the rest of your life. Rather say: I want to be done with my law studies by 31 December 2020. Or I will save $1000 by 31 December this year. It is simply a due date that you give yourself for accomplishing your goal.
By following this system you can dramatically increase your chances of you achieving your goals. I have a special FREE printable SMART goals worksheet that you can download here. Use it and see what happens!
I have used this system for many years and I can definitely tell you, that it is when I’ve veered off of this system that I have not achieved my goals. Now, of course I didn’t have the name for this system at first, but I was unknowingly following this system for a long time. I am currently using it especially in the areas of my spiritual growth and business goals. All I can say is: It works!
Positively Good 