Creating SMART goals

1. Creating SMART goals S pecific M easurable A ttainable R elevant T imely

2. Creating specific goals A specific goal has a much greater chance of being accomplished than a general goal. An ambiguous goal is to “get swole.” A specific goal is to “increase the amount of weight I can bench press."

3. Creating specific goals Consider the exact who, what, where, when, why, and how of your goal: WHO is involved? WHAT do you want to accomplish? WHERE will it be done? WHY is this important (reasons / purpose)? HOW will I accomplish it (action steps)? Clearly define your goal – NO ambiguous language.

4. Creating measurable goals Establish concrete criteria for measuring progress toward the attainment of your goal. An ambiguous goal is “to get a better grade in that class.” A specific goal is “to improve my grade to an 85% in that class.

5. Creating measurable goals Exactly how you will know if your goal has been accomplished? Base your goal on quantifiable (measureable) data -numbers, percentages, etc.

6. Creating attainable goals Can your goal realistically be accomplished? Is your goal too easily accomplished? Do you even really to set a goal to accomplish it? An unrealistic goal is “to master taekwondo after one lesson.” An unnecessary goal is “to master making toast after one lesson.”

7. Creating relevant goals Is accomplishing the goal worthwhile? Is the goal consistent with your short term needs? Is the goal consistent with your long term plans?

8. Creating timely goals Establish a timeframe for your goal – include time management in your planning. Without a sense of urgency, you can become apathetic about your goal. An apathetic goal is “to stop smoking sometime this year.” A timely goal is “to smoke my last cigarette on Thursday.”

10. SMART Goal Re-write (1): • I will apply to college.

11. SMART Goal Re-write (2): • I will save money for a car.

12. SMART Goal Re-write (3): • I will eat healthier.

13. Is this a SMART goal? • I will manage my time better.