Setting S.M.A.R.T. Goals in 2009

Posted by Laura McPeck, Director, Business Development

Wikipedia defines goals as “A goal or objective consists of a projected state of affairs which a person or a system plans or intends to achieve or bring about — a personal or organizational desired end-point in some sort of assumed development.”

I received a communication from, Healthworks Fitness - Back Bay on setting S.M.A.R.T. goals which offers guidance on setting intelligent goals to achieve your desired outcome. As we forge ahead into a New Year, it’s important to set S.M.A.R.T. goals in order to achieve a positive end result and attain your objectives set forth. Thought I would share:

Specific: A specific goal has a much greater chance of being accomplished than a general goal. To set a specific goal, answer the five "W" questions:
Who: Who is involved?
What: What do I want to accomplish?
Where: Where will I accomplish the goal?
When: When will I work on my goal and what is a realistic time frame for reaching my goal?
Why: What are the reasons, purpose or benefits of accomplishing the goal?

Measurable: Choose goals that have results you can measure. When you measure your progress, you stay on track, reach your target dates and experience the exhilaration of achievement.

Achievable: Think about what you can honestly achieve. Goal setting is a good way to push yourself beyond your current limits. So pick a goal that requires some effort, but choose a goal that is within reach.

Rewarding: It feels great to reach a goal, but find extra ways to reward yourself along the way. Plan rewards ahead of time so you have something to look forward to.

Timely/Trackable/Tangible: A goal should be grounded within a time frame. With no time frame tied to it there's no sense of urgency. Keeping track of your progress will help you stay motivated. A goal is tangible when you can experience it with one of your senses; taste, touch, smell, sight or hearing.

Source: Healthworks Fitness Centers For Women - Back Bay, heathline.com, Wikipedia