Ernest Smith

I know it is a few days into 2013, but there is no better time to start setting goals than right now.  But, if you’re like most people, then setting goals is an intimidating process.  Knowing this truth, I wanted to write a quick blog that can help you effectively set goals for 2013.

First, when thinking about your goals, make sure you know what you want to achieve in the end.  Don’t think about what you want to do over the next 2 months or what you want to look like after 6 months, what are the overarching goals of your life.

For example, many people say they want to lose weight.  Why?  Because they don’t want to be fat? Maybe.  Because they want to be able to run faster? Maybe.  Because they want to look good in a bikini? Maybe.  Answering the “Why” allows you to know what your main objective is.  If your main objective is to be healthy, then losing weight is just a start.

Second, make sure you have a good plan in place.  Most people set goals that no one but Superman could achieve.  You need to set goals that not only will help you achieve your ultimate objective, but goals that you can actually achieve.

Here is a system that I use to help create goals.  This system is not fail-proof.  You will fail with achieving your goal only when you become content with where you currently are. This is just a system that helps me…I hope it helps you.

S.M.A.R.T. (btw..this is not an Ernest original, google SMART and you can find more info)

S – Specific…make sure your goals are specific.  Your goal shouldn’t be “lose weight.”  How much weight do you want to lose?  Ask yourself the 6 W’s to make it more specific. (Who, What, When, Where, Why, Which)

M – Measurable…you must be able to measure each of your goals.  If there is not a number associated with your goal, then more than likely, it is not measurable.  Wanting to lose 15 pounds is measurable.  Determine how you will know when the goal has been accomplished to discover if it is measurable.

A – Attainable…your goals must be something that you can actually achieve.  Do you have the resources, the financial capital, the time, the energy to accomplish the goals you want to accomplish?  If you can’t put your energy, time and money toward it, then you probably won’t accomplish that goal.

R – Realistic…if your goals are not realistic, then you will give up and may never start over.  To be realistic, you must determine if you are willing and able to achieve this goal.  Attainable focuses on the ability to achieve, realistic focuses on the willingness to achieve.  If you know that you struggle with losing weight, then don’t make the goal too large (no pun intended).  Start small and you will gain greater results in the end.

T – Timely…your goals must have a finish date on them.  If your goal is “lose weight”, then as long as you weigh less when you die than you do right now, you accomplished the goal.  You must state specifically when that goal will be completed.

These are the simple steps to take when setting a goal.  Start small.  Don’t set too many.  1-3 goals are enough.  Achieve those and then set more.

If you want to grow and achieve all that God created you for, then you will want to set SMART goals every year.

Examples of 2 of my SMART Goals

          1.       Workout at least 30 minutes per day at least 5 times per week

          2.        Read 2 books with Sara that will further develop our relationship by the end of the year

Now…hold me accountable. 🙂