SMART Goals

Heather Carter
May 5
2 min read

💡 What Are SMART Goals?

SMART is an acronym that stands for:

S – Specific
M – Measurable
A – Achievable
R – Relevant
T – Time-bound

Each element helps ensure your goal is clear, realistic, and trackable.

🧩 Breaking Down SMART

🎯 S – Specific

Your goal should be clear and well-defined.Ask: What exactly do I want to accomplish? Who is involved? Why does this matter?

✅ Example:Bad: “I want to be healthier.”Good: “I want to exercise three times a week to improve my physical health.”

📏 M – Measurable

You need to track your progress with concrete data or outcomes.Ask: How will I know when I’ve reached the goal? What does success look like?

✅ Example:“I will track my workouts using an app and aim for 30 minutes of activity per session.”

🏗️ A – Achievable

The goal should be challenging but realistic given your resources and constraints.Ask: Is this doable with what I have?

✅ Example:Instead of aiming to run a marathon next week, try:“I will train for a 5K over the next 8 weeks, starting with walking and short runs.”

🎯 R – Relevant

Your goal should align with your broader values, needs, or long-term objectives.Ask: Why is this important to me right now? How does it connect to my bigger picture?

✅ Example:“I want to reduce stress through regular exercise so I can feel more focused at work.”

⏰ T – Time-bound

Set a realistic deadline to stay motivated and accountable.Ask: By when will I achieve this goal? What are my checkpoints?

✅ Example:“I will work out three times per week for the next 2 months.”

🧠 Putting It All Together

📝 Example SMART Goal:

“I will go to the gym for 30 minutes, three times a week, for the next 8 weeks, to improve my mental and physical health.”

This is:

✅ Specific (going to the gym)
✅ Measurable (3x/week, 30 minutes)
✅ Achievable (fits a realistic schedule)
✅ Relevant (improves health)
✅ Time-bound (8-week timeline)

✅ How to Use SMART Goals Effectively

1. Write It Down

Documenting your SMART goals makes them more concrete.

2. Break Big Goals into Small Steps

If a goal feels overwhelming, split it into mini SMART goals.

3. Track Your Progress

Use a journal, app, or calendar to check off milestones.

4. Adjust if Needed

If you fall off track, revisit and tweak the goal—don't abandon it.

5. Celebrate Small Wins

Recognizing progress boosts motivation and builds momentum.

📌 SMART Goals for Different Areas

Area	SMART Goal Example
Mental Health	“I’ll use a mindfulness app for 10 minutes every morning for the next 30 days.”
Career	“I will update my resume and apply to 3 jobs per week for the next month.”
Relationships	“I’ll plan one quality activity with my partner each weekend for the next 6 weeks.”
Fitness	“I’ll run 2 miles every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for 4 weeks.”