Choose goals that are important to you
This advice may seem trite, but it cannot be overemphasized, especially if you are setting goals for the first time or at a time when everyone else is doing it (an example is New Year’s resolutions). In each of these cases, it’s easy to choose a general goal instead of focusing on what works best for you. So be sure to spend some time reflecting on your values and priorities to set a goal that will motivate you.
Start with something simple
This is especially true if you are new to setting SMART goals. If you choose a goal that is too complicated (for example, moving to another country), it can be extremely difficult to achieve, even with the SMART system. It’s better to start with something simpler and smaller to see how easy the process is for you, and then tackle a bigger goal. If you do need to start with an ambitious goal, consider breaking it down into smaller tasks that are easier and faster to accomplish.
Make sure you can control the goals
Not all goals, especially work-related goals, are up to you. Sometimes you need to ensure control over all aspects of the process and have a backup plan in case the other person is unable to fulfill their part. However, sometimes it is not crucial. In this case, you should ask yourself if sharing responsibility is really the best option for achieving a certain goal, or if it is better to be the only one responsible for the result.
Consider the specifics of different goals
The process of setting SMART goals is never the same. Bigger goals will require different metrics, deadlines, and motivation than smaller ones. Personal and professional goals may also require different approaches, as some of us are more motivated to work on work-related tasks than personal ones, while others are vice versa. Keep flexible and try to adapt your system to fit your specific goal, not the other way around.
Tune in to the positive
Positive thinking is generally good for quality of life, so why not use this approach when setting goals? Focusing on positive outcomes can serve as an additional motivation and reduce anxiety about achieving a goal. For example, if you want to start eating healthier, you can focus on eating a balanced diet on a daily basis instead of aiming to eliminate certain “unhealthy” foods from your diet.
Write down all the details
No matter how detailed your goal is, you may forget important nuances if you don’t write them down. Be sure to write down all the details on paper or in a digital document. You can create a SMART planner where you set goals and track your progress. This will help you keep on top of them and minimize procrastination. If you want, you can even decorate your planner with handwriting, illustrations, and other motivational things.
Be flexible
This is especially true for those who are setting SMART goals for the first time. In some cases, you may realize that it is impossible to achieve a goal and that it is better to abandon or change it than to make the effort. You may also find out that the goal can be achieved faster or that the result is already satisfying, even if you are still far from the original goal. Flexibility and regular review of goals allows you to make the most of your time and prioritize wisely.
Praise yourself
If your goal is successfully realized or you are progressing at the desired pace, take a moment to praise yourself and maybe even reward yourself with something. Such support will give you additional motivation to achieve your goals.
Learn from failures
Even if you fail to achieve a goal, don’t be discouraged. Instead, evaluate your path, identify potential areas for improvement, and find other valuable insights. Use this information when setting a new goal to make it more achievable.