Encouraged about your 2020 goals, former procrastinators? We don’t chuck our aims because we weren’t great performers in January. We refine our goals and our approach and keep moving.
The well known SMART guideline provides a reminder of how to set ourselves up for success.
Specific – Are my goals clearly defined? Not “Lose weight” but “Lose five pounds a month March-May.” Not “read more” but “Read one book a month.”
Measurable – How do I calculate whether or not I’ve met the goal? Pounds on a scale, names of recipes tried, places I submitted applications. Avoid “more” or “less” and quantify your aim.
Attainable – Is your goal actually achievable? “Complete all photo albums” might be unreasonable. “Complete two” is doable. Recognize that a goal should be something over which you have control of the factors that can make it happen. You can’t make your child learn to swim; you can take him to lessons.
Relevant – Does the goal move you toward the priority God has made clear or the dream you believe He’s given you?
Time-keyed. Set a date for completion. Set dates for sub goals along the way. (“Redecorate bedroom by June 30. Sub goals: Select paint and fabrics by February 28. Paint by March 31. Refinish dresser by April 30. Hang Curtains by May 31. Finalize by June 30.”)
Michael Hyatt recommends SMARTER goals. He adds:
Exciting – Is the goal something you really want to do? (What interest or heart desire have you been putting off?)
Risky – Does the goal stretch you? (Will I need to step out of my comfort zone in faith?)
How have you defined your few essential goals using SMARTER?
Leave a Reply