Smart Goal Setting

When setting goals for yourself, or a New Year's Resolution, it is easy to be vague and simply say, "lose weight." However, when you get specific--for example, including how you will achieve the goal--your goal becomes easier to achieve. When your goals contain specifics, it helps you create a plan that positions you to be successful. This year try using the acronym "SMART" to transform your goal setting from an idea into reality. A weight loss goal can be transformed from "lose weight" into a much more attainable goal when it is "SMART."SPECIFICYour goal should be as specific as possible and answer the following questions: What do I want to accomplish? Where will it take place? Who else will be involved?MEASURABLEIt is important to set a standard of measurement to know when you have met your goal. This part of the goal keeps you accountable. Consider how will you measure your goal. Your goal should include the answer to: how many? how much? how often?ATTAINABLEGoals should push you, yet be achievable. It is important to consider if your goal is realistic for you and realistic for the timeframe you choose. Making sure your goal is attainable will help ensure success.RELEVANTWhen you identify goals that are most important to you, you begin to figure out ways to make them happen. Making your goal relevant to your life means taking a moment to reflect on why you want to achieve this goal.Identifying why you want it or how it will improve your life, may ultimately drive you to achieving your goal. This is your biggest motivator!Make a list of all the ways your life will be improved if you meet your goal. Pick the one most important and include it in the final draft of your written goal.TIMELYWhat is the timeframe you have set to complete your goal? Remember to make it attainable. Including a time frame helps keep you accountable.Here are a few examples of SMART goals for healthier living in 2016:In order to be able to play outside with my kids, I will join a weight loss program that will keep me accountable and provide the support I need to be successful in losing 50 pounds by December 31, 2016.In order to reduce my blood pressure and get off medication, I will lose 20 pounds in 3 months by eliminating soda, eating at least_ 4-6 servings of vegetables a day, and only one serving of whole grains each day.In order to set a healthy example for my kids and increase family time, we will eat dinner at home a minimum of 5 nights a week that include a balanced meal of protein, vegetables, and whole grains.In order to look good for pictures at my daughter's wedding, I will start exercising for an hour--30 minutes of cardio and 30 minutes of weights--3 times a week for the next 6 months.Whatever your goals may be for 2016, make them SMART and set yourself up for success!