I was recently helping a team with setting goals and shared this simple, well-known framework. It's called SMART, as many of you I'm sure know, but I tweak it just a little bit...
1. S is for Specific
Don't just say, "I want to get fit" or "write a book." Hone in on the details.
Think "I want to run 5k without feeling like my lungs are going to collapse." or "I want to publish a 250 page psychological thriller"
2. M is for Measurable
You can't track "become successful." Solid metrics matter.
Think "I want to save £250 per month" or "I want to write a chapter of my book a week"
3. A is for Achievable
I’m not a big fan of this one because who knows what's achievable until you try?
So I actually adjust this framework to become SMRT... As long as you make sure you're emotionally invested, and you have the rest of the framework covered. Everything else takes care of itself in my opinion!
4. R is for Relevant
Your goals should align with your bigger picture. Learning to juggle is a fun skill, but if your main objective is career growth or completing a marathon, is it really contributing to your success? Focus on what matters.
5. T is for Time-bound
Deadlines are here to help. "I want to run 5k" or "I want to write a book" are all great but "run 3 times a week" turns 'wants' into results. To solidify progress, establish non-negotiable habits within your weekly routine—ones you can't skip.
So, SMRT, as I like to call it, isn't just a buzzword that you hear flying around. It’s how you turn those big goals into reality. So write some of those goals you have down on paper and make sure they're SMRT!
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