I love a good goal! Obviously, we can set goals at any time, and while I know that writing about goal setting as we head into the new year is absolutely cliché, many of us practice this, and I am all about intentionality as we enter into 2026!
If you are choosing to set a goal, those of you who have worked with me know that I live and die by SMART goals. This is an acronym that is very useful to use as a guide when setting goals.
S – Specific: In order for a goal to be effective, it needs to be specific. A specific goal answers questions like:
- What needs to be accomplished?
- Who’s responsible for it?
- What steps need to be taken to achieve it?
Thinking through these questions helps get to the heart of what you’re aiming for.
M-Measurable: Quantifying your goals makes it easier to track progress and to know when you’ve met your goal. How will you know you have achieved your goal? Aka, what specific outcome will you observe to know that you’ve reached the finish line?
A – Achievable: This is the point in the process when you give yourself a reality check. Goals should be realistic – not based on ideals! Ask yourself: is your objective something you can reasonably accomplish? If the answer is no, don’t worry! Perhaps that is the longer term goal. Think about what potential smaller goal(s) would be necessary to help you get to the longer term goal and go with that!
R- Relevant: Think about why you are setting this goal and how motivated you feel toward reaching this goal? Is this the right timing in your life for this goal? What potential added value will achieving this goal offer for you at this time in your life? Ask: Do I value this, and if so, why?
T-Time-bound: What would be a reasonable amount of time to give yourself to achieve this goal? Be realistic and start small! If you really want to exercise five days a week, start with three, anything else is bonus! You can always adjust the goal as you go, but start with something super doable.
**Remember: There is no such thing as a failed goal, only poor goals. If you’re not reaching the goal, change it up to one that is achievable!**