Being specific helps to incorporate the method into the goal, not just the outcome.
For example, instead of saying, “I want to lose weight” a specific goal, such as “I want to increase my weekly physical activity.” is easier to set a S.M.A.R.T. Goal for.
Try to set a goal for an action that you want to take rather than one you want to avoid.
What do you want to achieve?
Adding quantifiable or measurable criteria to your goal will allow you to measure progress as you work towards achieving your goal.
Being able to count off the numbers as you progress will feel good, and measuring can help keep you from cheating.
For example, If you want to reduce stress, you might set a goal to take short 10-minute meditation breaks twice each day. Keep a log and record your meditation sessions as well as your stress level each day to track your progress.
How will you track your goal to make sure things are changing?
Break large goals into smaller goals and spell out the process required to achieve your objectives.
Make sure that the process is also realistic so that you can achieve all of the individual steps that you need.
What are the small steps you need to take to reach your goal?
Goals should be inspiring enough that it motivates you to succeed. If you are not determined to meet your goal, obstacles will be very difficult to overcome.
Your goal should be meaningful to you and set by you—not set by someone else.
If you want to lose weight, why is it important to YOU that you lose weight?
What reason will motivate you enough to keep going when you want to quit?
When will you achieve your goal?
You need to choose a time that is realistic but not too far off into the future.
"I will [your goal here] by [how you will do the goal]. I will know I am making progress because [how you will measure the goal] for [time goes here]."
