SMARTER Goal Setting

Many of us are planning for our 2014 goals as we are now at the end of 2013. In order for our goals to stand a chance of being fulfilled by the same time next year, maybe it is a good idea to test them against these characteristics, using SMARTER as the acronym;

1. Is the dream Specific? Losing weight is a fuzzy goal. Losing 2 kg is specific.
2. Is the dream Measurable? As they say 'We can only achieve things (and goals) that we can measure'. Losing 2 kg is measurable.
3. Is the dream Actionable? Losing 2 kg is actionable compared to losing say 20 kg.
4. Is the dream Realistic? Losing 2 kg of weight is more realistic than losing 20 kg as per explanation above.
5. Do you allocate a Timeline to achieve it? Goals without timeline is nothing more than make believe.
6. Do you have Emotional reasons attach to the goals? Humans make decisions mostly on emotions, not only logic. Losing 2 kg because you want to be healthier so that you will have longer quality time with your family is a strong emotional reason.
7. What Routine do you plan to achieve your goals? To lose 2 kg may require you to pay a visit to your local gym 3 times a week.

Using SMARTER as a check list helps you to design a better goal for 2014  and increases the chances for you to achieve it by year end.

All the best in formulating your 2014 goals and may all of them will come true by this time next year.