Set SMART Goals to Achieve Lasting Success

“What if I fail? Oh, but darling, what if you fly?”

Goals. We all have them. 

Every day we resolve to finish something, be it a project at work, an afternoon workout class or a trip to the store to pick up groceries for the week ahead. 

And while we regularly check off a fair amount of items from our running to-do lists, a long-term goal offers the promise for bigger, brighter beginnings. 

But after you’ve set your sights on your future self, what comes next? 

While many people start off with every good intention of achieving their resolutions, most fall short and throw in the towel before their lifestyle changes can become habits. 

It's good to set our sights high and reach for the stars; however, we need to be honest with ourselves of what we are capable of at any moment in time. 

That's where SMART goals come in. 

SMART is an acronym that guides wise goal-setting:

• Specific.
• Measurable.
• Achievable.
• Realistic and Relevant.
• Time-bound or Timeline. 

The key is to set a goal that challenges what you're currently doing but allows for flexibility.

Goals should be set in a way that encourages and pushes you to make a commitment to something important. Being honest with yourself and having someone to be accountable to will help ensure success. 

Holding yourself accountable to a goal is a scary thing. The fear of judgment, ridicule and failure can prevent anyone from starting, let alone accomplishing a goal. 

But, according to experts, being vocal about your goals can actually motivate you to finish what you’ve so publicly started. 

Research shows that being public with your ambitions – be it through Facebook posts, a personal blog or support group meetings – leads to greater success than when you keep your dreams to yourself. 

Voicing your goals can help empower and inspire both you and others.

And, by sharing with others, we empower ourselves to achieve success! 

Whatever your goal – be it signing up for a 10K, eating more fruits and vegetables, landing a new job, or meditating for 10 minutes each morning – remember to start SMART so you can finish strong.

Published on: December 19, 2017